If you ask someone who is interested in solar malaysia, “NEM” is the first thing that comes to mind. The Net Energy Metering program has quietly turned normal Malaysians into little power producers. Roofs aren’t just for keeping the rain out anymore. They might also help you earn energy credits and maybe even beat Tenaga’s monthly bill.
This is how it works in the real world. Install some solar panels on your roof. First, you utilize the power you create to run your phone chargers, air conditioners, and personal refrigerators. But a lot of the time, especially on bright days when no one is around, you’ll create more than you need. That more power? It goes right back to the main grid, where a two-way meter maintains track of it. TNB, Malaysia’s biggest utility company, isn’t just watching; they’re recording every drop.
At this point, NEM gets fascinating. If you transmit extra electricity into the network with NEM 3.0, which came out in February 2021, you get credits for it. These aren’t simply a few cents on the dollar; the credits will almost totally pay for your future payments. If you put 100 kWh into the grid, your bill next month could go down by the same amount, as long as you use the same amount.
There is a set number of quotas. The government gives out NEM allocations in groups, so not everyone can get in at once. You may apply online, and the best thing to do is to do it early because slots fill up fast. You also need to own the business or home where you live and have your system registered and certified. Anyone who gets caught freelancing off-grid… well, let’s just say that TNB visits are never fun.
Who is NEM really for? Almost everyone! People are getting on board, from homes and enterprises to big industries and malls. People in Selangor, Penang, and Johor have stories about how their expenses have been slashed so much that their family members talk about ways to keep the air conditioner running all night.
The NEM plan is the best thing about solar malaysia: Make your own power, save a lot of money, help the grid become greener, and tell everyone who would listen about it. The government is doing this to help solar energy spread to more places. It seems that Malaysians are getting the message, because a lot of individuals are posting on solar forums. Don’t be surprised if your neighbor’s roof starts to shine. They could be the next prosumer in town.