Solar energy isn’t some complex, futuristic concept – it’s a practical solution for everyday homes, which directly translates to lower monthly electricity bills.
Ever thought your roof could help you save money and the planet? Going solar isn’t just smart – it’s one of the simplest ways to shrink your carbon footprint.
The best part is that it’s easier and more affordable than you might think to make this shift, with people realising they can actually save some serious cash and do their bit for the planet at the same time.
It’s not just about saving a few ringgit, though, as the whole idea of solar is getting more accessible.
Solar panels and systems are becoming more affordable, allowing you to see a faster return on your investment.
Plus, there are numerous financing options and incentives available, making it simpler for many to take that initial leap.
And, with the introduction of smart solar systems, you can even track your energy use and savings right from your fingertips, giving you a clear picture of your progress.
Beyond the financial benefits, adopting solar energy is a powerful step towards environmental sustainability.
By reducing reliance on the traditional grid, homeowners can significantly lower their carbon footprint, contributing to a greener Malaysia.
Hybrid systems also offer consumers peace of mind, as the backup power supply ensures stable electricity in the event of a power disruption.
How solar energy works for everyday homes
Solar energy isn’t some complex, futuristic concept – it’s a practical solution for everyday homes, which directly translates to lower monthly electricity bills.
To illustrate, Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s (TNB) online solar calculator, available on its website, demonstrates how a typical terrace home could benefit from solar energy adoption.
By inputting their current monthly bill and selecting their home type, homeowners can estimate the impact of solar panel installation on their electricity bills.
For instance, with solar panels installed, a RM300 monthly bill could potentially be reduced to just RM10-RM20 with a 5.5kWp solar installation.
These substantial savings are accompanied by significant benefits from an environmental standpoint, resulting in an annual reduction of 4.4 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide, equivalent to 72 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.
This is also aided by the fact that modern systems offer smart energy management solutions, such as smart meters, apps and web-based remote management platforms, allowing you to monitor your consumption and optimise usage.
This means you can see exactly how much energy you’re generating and using, empowering you to make informed decisions about your energy habits.
Additionally, hybrid systems that combine solar with battery storage offer backup power, keeping you connected even during outages.
This combination of cost savings, smart management and reliability makes solar an attractive option for homeowners.
“When solar panel costs became relatively affordable last year, I looked into it as a means of cutting my electricity bills while becoming more self-sustainable,” said 39-year-old Edmund Low from Kuala Lumpur.
“After installing an 18-panel 9.9kWp solar inverter system last May, my electricity bill now averages between RM20 and RM45 per month. The difference was instantaneous as my bill dropped to RM30 from RM500 in the first month alone.
“According to my calculations, I will pay off the cost of the investment in four to five years with the savings I gain from installing the solar panels. Looking back, I’m glad I made the leap to solar energy – I only wish I had done it sooner.”
Meanwhile, 29-year-old Justin Tan, who installed solar panels at his Kajang home over a year ago said: “It’s not as complicated as people think. You’re basically getting cheaper electricity bills and easing pressure on the power grid.
“If you can afford to, going solar just makes sense in the long term. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the planet.”
How to make the switch to solar
Although it may seem cumbersome, making the shift to solar is more straightforward than many anticipate.
The first step is to find a reputable solar installer who can assess your home’s suitability and design a system tailored to your needs.
They will then guide you through the process, from system design and installation to connecting your system to the grid.
The government, as well as various financial institutions, also offer numerous incentives and financing schemes to aid homeowners in this transition, such as the Solar for Rakyat Incentive Scheme (SolaRIS).
This scheme offers a cash rebate of up to RM4,000 for residential customers who install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
TNB plays a crucial role in supporting the solar energy transition, providing resources and tools, like the myTNB app, to monitor your energy savings and manage your solar system.
With the right guidance and support, Malaysian households can seamlessly transition to solar energy, achieving financial savings and contributing to a more environmentally responsible lifestyle with cleaner, more affordable power.
Click here to see how easy it is to switch and start saving.
