Beginning 1 January 2026, the Malaysian government officially launched the Solar Accelerated Transition Action Programme (Solar ATAP)—a new consumer‑focused solar initiative designed to replace and improve upon previous schemes like NEM. Many homeowners are now wondering: Is Solar ATAP worth installing on my home?
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can decide confidently.
🌞 What Exactly Is Solar ATAP?
According to the official guidelines published by the Energy Commission in the document For Solar Photovoltaic Installation Under The Programme Of NEM Rakyat And NEM GoMEn In Peninsular Malaysia, Solar ATAP is designed to:
- Allow homeowners to generate solar electricity mainly for self‑consumption.
- Enable homeowners to export extra electricity back to TNB and receive bill credits.
- Create a more cost‑neutral, transparent system.
- Support Malaysia’s national clean energy transition.
💡 What Makes ATAP Different from NEM?
Here are the big changes:
1. Bill Credits Based Only on Energy Charge
Domestic users exporting extra energy receive credits based on the Energy Charge (not the full tariff).
This ensures fairness across all consumers.
2. No Carry Forward of Excess Energy
Unused exported energy cannot be carried to the next month—any leftover is forfeited.
3. Maximum PV Size for Homes
- Single-phase homes: Up to 5kW
- Three-phase homes: Up to 15kW
Capacity above these limits requires a Connection Confirmation Check (CCC).
4. 10-Year Program Period
The ATAP contract runs for up to 10 years from the system’s commissioning date.
💰 Is Solar ATAP Financially Worth It?
For many homeowners, yes—Solar ATAP can reduce your monthly bill, but the savings depend on consumption habits.
Where You Save Money
- Every kWh you generate and use yourself is one less you buy from TNB.
- Excess energy exported earns bill credits (Energy Charge rate).
Where Savings Are Limited
- Credits can’t offset fuel surcharges (AFA).
- You can’t carry forward unused exported energy.
- Credits don’t apply to fixed charges or SST.
This means Solar ATAP favors households that:
- Use electricity during the day (when solar is strongest)
- Have steady monthly usage patterns
- Want long-term savings rather than quick payback
🏡 Is ATAP Worth It for Landed Homeowners?
For most landed homeowners, yes, because:
- Roof space is usually sufficient for 5–15kW.
- Self-consumption can be optimized with daytime appliances (washer/dryer, water heaters, etc.).
- Homes tend to have higher monthly bills, making solar offsets more valuable.
🏢 What About Condo Units?
Condominium installations are possible but:
- Must follow the same document and engineering requirements.
- Roof access and JMB/MC approval may be restrictive.
ATAP is generally easier for landed properties.
⚙️ What You Should Consider Before Installing
1. Total Investment Cost
A typical 4–6kW home system in Malaysia costs RM12,000–RM25,000 depending on brand, inverter type, and roof structure.
2. Roof Direction & Shade
South-facing roofs perform best; heavy shading reduces benefits.
3. Your Daily Lifestyle
If most usage is at night, consider battery systems (though ATAP does allow BESS integration).
🧾 How to Apply for Solar ATAP
The process described in For Solar Photovoltaic Installation Under The Programme Of NEM Rakyat And NEM GoMEn In Peninsular Malaysia involves:
- Eligibility checks
- Appointing a Registered PV Service Provider
- Submitting documents via SEDA’s eATAP system
- Conducting CCC (if needed)
- Contract signing and metering
- System commissioning and 10-year ATAP period begins
⭐ So… Is Solar ATAP Worth It?
Yes—Solar ATAP is worth it for most Malaysian homeowners, especially those:
- Living in landed houses
- With medium-to-high electricity usage
- Home during the day
- Looking for long-term bill reduction
- Wanting to contribute to Malaysia’s clean energy future
You may not get the same payback speed as the old NEM system, but ATAP still offers:
- Real monthly savings
- Lower carbon footprint
- Improved home value
And unlike older systems, ATAP is designed to be more transparent and fair for all electricity consumers.