PUTRAJAYA - The government is encouraging both domestic and non-domestic consumers to subscribe to the Solar Accelerated Transition Action Programme (Solar ATAP) to enhance energy self-sufficiency and mitigate the impact of electricity price volatility amid the global energy crisis.
The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (Petra) said in a statement today that the programme, which has been implemented since Jan 1, aims to encourage the installation of rooftop solar systems and create economic value for consumers through lower energy costs instead of direct cash flow.
According to the ministry, the effort is in line with Malaysia’s approach, which places emphasis on energy efficiency and optimising self-consumption.
"This programme is expected to enhance energy self-sustainability and subsequently reduce the impact of current electricity price volatility,” the statement said.
PETRA said that various procurement models such as solar leasing and rent-to-own are available to non-domestic consumers through solar panel installation companies, enabling access to renewable energy without the need for upfront capital.
"To make the Solar ATAP programme more accessible to all parties, particularly in mitigating the negative impact of the global energy crisis, PETRA is currently formulating improvements to the programme, especially for domestic users,” the statement said.
The ministry added that users in the Medium Voltage (MV), High Voltage (HV) and Ultra High Voltage (UHV) categories, who require stable electricity prices, may consider the Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS) programme as an option to obtain a long-term supply of green electricity.
Companies interested in the programme can obtain further information by contacting the Single Buyer or downloading the CRESS Guidelines from the Energy Commission’s website at https://www.st.gov.my/CRESS-guidelines.
In the meantime, PETRA also encouraged users to adopt energy-efficient practices, including setting air-conditioning at 24 degrees Celsius, using energy-efficient electrical appliances, and taking advantage of the Time of Use (ToU) scheme to optimise electricity consumption costs.
"PETRA is confident that all these initiatives can help ease the burden of energy costs for the people and subsequently serve as a strategic catalyst in strengthening the country’s energy landscape in the long term,” the statement said.
The ministry said the initiative is in line with the government’s current policy, which seeks to maintain the energy trilemma elements of security of supply, affordability and sustainability for all. - BERNAMA