Malaysia Expands NEM Rakyat Quota by 100MW to Accelerate Residential Rooftop Solar Adoption

In a move to encourage wider adoption of rooftop solar systems among residential users, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) has announced an additional 100MW quota for the Net Energy Metering (NEM) Rakyat programme. This raises the total quota under NEM Rakyat to 600MW since its launch in 2011.

The decision follows strong public interest, with the existing quota fully subscribed. The additional 100MW allocation is now open to all domestic users under Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), effective until 30 June 2025 or until the quota is exhausted — whichever comes first.

PETRA stated that this initiative is in line with the government’s broader goal of democratizing the energy transition by making rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems more accessible to residential users.

Updated guidelines for NEM Rakyat are available on the Energy Commission’s website , while application procedures can be accessed via the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia.

Beyond the NEM scheme, homeowners also have the option to install solar systems for self-use under the Solar for Self-Consumption (SelCo) programme. Those interested in leasing their rooftop space to solar producers or aggregators can consider joining the Community Renewable Energy Aggregation Scheme (CREAM).

Meanwhile, PETRA and the Energy Commission are reviewing new mechanisms and strategies to ensure the next phase of rooftop solar programmes is more inclusive and equitable. The upcoming initiative, known as TBB (Tenaga Boleh Baharu or Renewable Energy), aims to benefit a wider range of electricity users.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding and refining the rooftop solar agenda in support of Malaysia’s long-term target of achieving 70% renewable energy capacity in electricity supply by 2050. This initiative is viewed as a critical step toward sustainable development, environmental preservation, and responsible energy management for future generations — aligning with the Malaysia MADANI principles.