The Solar ATAP programme, replacing NEM, allows surplus solar energy to be sold to the grid, with no initial quota and higher capacity limits.
PUTRAJAYA: The government will implement the Solar Accelerated Transition Action Programme (Solar ATAP) effective 1 January 2026 to utilise rooftop spaces for generating renewable energy.
The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) confirmed the programme is the successor to the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme which ended on 30 June.
The Energy Commission has prepared the Solar ATAP guidelines, accessible on its website from 31 December.
Applications can be submitted starting 1 January 2026 via the Sustainable Energy Development Authority’s (SEDA) website.
PETRA stated the final programme incorporates several improvements based on stakeholder feedback.
Solar ATAP will not have a fixed quota at launch, though the government retains the authority to impose a cap if needed for grid stability.
The programme retains a core NEM principle by allowing surplus solar energy to be fed into the grid for energy credit.
PETRA has set the energy credit rates based on electricity market prices.
Non-domestic consumers will receive the system marginal price, while domestic consumers receive their prevailing energy charge.
The solar system installation limit is set at 100% of maximum demand.
For domestic users, single-phase homes can install systems with a capacity of 5kW.
The capacity for three-phase homes has been raised from 12.5kW to 15kW.
The Solar ATAP programme is expected to provide a viable choice for consumers to use building rooftops for renewable energy generation.
It is also designed to significantly accelerate clean energy development to support national carbon reduction goals.
PETRA is confident it will serve as a strategic, long-term catalyst for strengthening the national energy landscape.
The initiative supports Malaysia’s aspiration to achieve 70% renewable energy capacity by 2050.
“This initiative not only drives national sustainability but also demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibility to current and future generations,” said PETRA. – Bernama
