Malaysia Urges Mosques to Adopt Rooftop Solar Under ATAP Programme

The Malaysian government is encouraging mosques across the country to install rooftop solar panels as part of its clean energy push. The initiative comes under the Solar Accelerated Transition Action Programme (ATAP), which was introduced earlier this year to speed up the adoption of renewable energy. The programme aims to align religious institutions with Malaysia’s national energy transition goals and long-term environmental targets.

Speaking during a recent session in the Dewan Rakyat, Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said mosques with high electricity bills could benefit greatly from switching to solar power. He explained that buildings with monthly electricity costs between RM1,000 and RM1,500 would see the most noticeable savings. Although there are currently no direct government subsidies for installing solar systems at mosques, the long-term financial advantages make it a practical and worthwhile investment.

According to the Deputy Minister, the cost of installing a rooftop solar system typically ranges from RM60,000 to RM70,000. While this may seem high at the beginning, the savings over time can be significant. Solar systems can reduce electricity bills by up to 80 percent. For example, a mosque that usually pays RM1,000 per month for electricity could see its bill fall to around RM200 after installing solar panels. These savings would allow mosque committees to use their funds for community programmes, welfare activities, and building maintenance instead of spending most of their budget on utility expenses.

The push for solar energy adoption is part of Malaysia’s broader renewable energy roadmap. The country aims to increase its renewable energy capacity to 35 percent by 2030 and further expand it to 70 percent by 2050. By encouraging mosques and other community institutions to adopt solar power, the government hopes to strengthen public participation in achieving these national targets.

When asked about making solar installations mandatory for new mosques and schools, the Ministry clarified that such decisions fall under the authority of state governments and the Ministry of Education. However, the Ministry of Energy Transition has expressed its readiness to provide technical advice and support to institutions interested in installing solar panels or energy storage systems.

To support the initiative, the government plans to conduct engagement sessions with imams, village heads, and local community leaders. These sessions will help explain the benefits of renewable energy and the country’s long-term energy plans. Through this effort, Malaysia hopes to promote sustainability at the grassroots level and show that community institutions can contribute meaningfully to climate action.