TNB to encourage smart energy use for efficient and sustainable future
IN A time of rising energy costs and heightened environmental awareness, energy efficiency stands out as a pivotal and practical solution for both households and businesses.
While some may perceive energy-efficient solutions as an initial expense or chore, the reality is that these approaches are long-term investments that could yield significant returns.
With initiatives from the government and energy providers like Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) promoting smarter energy consumption, Malaysians have more opportunities than ever to embrace sustainable energy practices.
It’s not just about saving money – it’s about building a sustainable future while enhancing comfort and stability.
Cost-saving benefits
The most immediate and tangible benefit of energy efficiency is the reduction in electricity bills.
Malaysians can dramatically reduce consumption rates by upgrading to modern, energy-efficient appliances, like switching to LED lighting or installing solar panels.
LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, while modern appliances are designed to operate more efficiently without needlessly wasting energy.
Solar panels, while requiring a larger upfront investment, could generate substantial savings over their lifespan, potentially allowing you to sell excess energy back to TNB.
For businesses, energy efficiency is not just an environmental responsibility but a strategic advantage.
By implementing energy-efficient practices, businesses can improve their environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores, which are increasingly important to investors and customers alike.
Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, and businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability are more likely to attract and retain customers.
Breaking the myth
A common misconception is that energy efficiency means sacrificing comfort, such as enduring the Malaysian heat and humidity without air conditioning.
However, technological advancements have proven otherwise, debunking the notion that sustainability necessitates comfort. In fact, modern solutions often enhance comfort while reducing our environmental impact.
Smart meters, automated cooling systems and energy management applications have enabled us to optimise energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable environment.
Smart air conditioning systems, for example, can be adjusted to your preferences, switching on and off to match your schedules, ensuring optimal comfort without wasting energy.
By embracing innovations like these, Malaysian households and businesses can enjoy a more energy-efficient lifestyle without compromising convenience or sustainability.
Fueling sustainable energy adoption
To encourage the adoption of energy-efficient solutions, the government and various industry bodies offer a range of incentives for homeowners and businesses.
Malaysians can tap into rebates, tax incentives and financing programmes designed to reduce the upfront cost of upgrades.
The Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia, an agency under the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra), provides numerous incentives for homeowners, businesses and industries, as per the newly tabled Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (EECA) 2024.
One such initiative is the Nikmat Untuk Rakyat (NUR) e-rebate programme that rewards consumers and businesses for purchasing appliances rated 4 or 5 stars for energy efficiency by the Energy Commission and Sabah Energy Commission.
Other initiatives include the Net Energy Metering (NEM) and Self-Consumption (SelCo) programmes, Feed-in Tariff (FiT) system, Solar for Rakyat Incentive Scheme (SolaRIS) and Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA).
Building an energy-efficient future
TNB plays a vital role in making these solutions accessible through initiatives like the myTNB platform.
Through myTNB, customers can track their energy usage in real-time, identify patterns and implement strategies to reduce consumption.
Additionally, energy audits conducted by TNB provide detailed assessments of energy usage and recommendations for improvement, enabling easier and more effective energy management for businesses.
Ultimately, embracing energy efficiency is a collective effort, requiring the participation of individuals, businesses and government entities. By taking action today, we can build a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
To learn more energy efficiency tips, visit https://www.mytnb.com.my/energy-efficiency/home-energy-savings-tips/tips-tricks.
