Malaysia’s Solar Revolution: The Undiscovered Power of Your Roof to Make Money
June 15, 2025
Imagine this: Compared to certain desert nations, Malaysia receives more sunlight each year. But most of our roofs just sit there, while the solar panel malaysia on our neighbors’ rooftops are busy making money. gathering dust. taking in heat. doing nothing productive at all. Having a factory in your backyard without ever turning on the machines is analogous to that.
The harsh reality is that solar technology has advanced to the point where it is essentially a waste of money to not have panels. The figures are honest. Your TNB expense can be reduced by 70–90% with a standard 5kW household system. Each month, hundreds of ringgit remain in your pocket rather than disappearing into the grid.
The government’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) program is revolutionary, yet it isn’t discussed enough. Produce additional power throughout the day? At the same price they charge you, TNB buys it back. In essence, your roof turns into a miniature power plant that discreetly generates electricity as you go about your daily activities. Due to the fact that the meter practically rotates backward on sunny days, some homeowners have lowered their bills to nearly nil.
Installation is no longer as difficult as it once was. Modern systems are up and running with little interruption in two to three days. The site evaluation, permit approval, installation, and commissioning procedures go more smoothly than a teh tarik. Completed. You don’t have to rebuild your home or move out.
Upkeep? What upkeep? A pet rock requires more upkeep than these systems. The inverter hums softly in the background as the panels are kept clean by the odd downpour. Most high-quality panels will probably outlast your water heater and come with 25-year performance guarantees.
Battery storage enables the next degree of energy independence for individuals who wish to go above and beyond. For use at night or during blackouts—which, let’s face it, occur more frequently than we’d like—store your solar energy. Just the thought of being the only house on the block with air conditioning and lights in the event of the next grid disruption may make the investment worthwhile.
Let’s dispel a few myths:
“But the rainy season!” Even in overcast conditions, panels continue to generate, albeit less. Similar to how you still work after a large lunch, but more slowly.
“Too expensive!” Financing alternatives frequently result in a monthly payment that is less than your current electric bill because prices have decreased so significantly.
The best part is that solar panels raise the value of your home. Homes with solar panels sell more quickly and for more money, according to studies. Not only is that an energy upgrade in the current market, but it’s also a wise financial decision.
Last year, a friend in Subang Jaya set up a system. His monthly electricity bill dropped from RM450 to RM50. Before realizing his meter was running backward on weekends, he believed TNB had made a mistake. His roof now generates more revenue than some of his assets, he jokes.
The true question is not whether you can afford solar, but rather whether you can afford not to go solar, thanks to Malaysia’s ideal solar conditions, substantial subsidies, and technology that truly pays for itself. Like an unused asset, your roof is just lying there, scorching in the tropical sun. It’s time to get to work.