PUTRAJAYA — Beginning January 1, 2026, Malaysians will have greater opportunities to participate in the country’s renewable energy agenda through the launch of the Enhanced Solar Energy Transition Programme, or Solar ATAP. The programme allows building rooftops to be utilised for solar power generation, empowering consumers to produce their own electricity while contributing to national sustainability goals.
Solar ATAP follows the conclusion of the previous Net Energy Metering scheme but arrives with enhanced features designed to make solar adoption more attractive. PETRA announced that the programme will open with no predetermined quota, giving flexibility for participation across household, industrial and commercial sectors. However, safeguards remain — the government may introduce limits should excessive solar input threaten grid reliability.
A defining advantage of the programme is its energy offset mechanism, enabling consumers to sell surplus electricity back to the national grid. Non-domestic participants will operate under market-based pricing structures linked to system marginal price, while domestic consumers will benefit from offsets tied to the electricity energy charge. This structure is designed to ensure fairness, transparency and competitive returns.
Solar ATAP also provides improved installation flexibility. Consumers can now install rooftop systems equivalent to their full maximum energy demand. Domestic single-phase households may install up to 5kW, while three-phase households are permitted up to 15kW — a notable increase that will expand rooftop solar practicality for larger homes.
PETRA highlighted that beyond reducing electricity bills, Solar ATAP is expected to accelerate Malaysia’s transition toward clean energy. By optimising unused rooftop space, the programme supports carbon reduction efforts, advances cleaner air quality and decreases reliance on fossil fuels.
Economically, the programme is anticipated to energise the renewable sector through new business opportunities, technology innovation and job creation. The growing solar ecosystem is projected to benefit installation companies, equipment manufacturers, engineering firms and green technology specialists.
Solar ATAP is also deeply aligned with Malaysia’s long-term vision to secure 70 percent renewable capacity in national electricity by 2050. It demonstrates the government’s commitment not only to modernization of energy infrastructure but also to protecting future generations under the principles of Malaysia MADANI.
In essence, Solar ATAP marks the beginning of a transformative chapter. Rooftops — once passive structures — are set to become dynamic clean-energy assets. As Malaysia steps into this new renewable era, the initiative is expected to bring economic value, environmental protection and strengthened national energy security.