Malaysia solar initiative targets RM115 million annual energy savings

Malaysia is implementing solar photovoltaic systems across various government premises to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the initiative, managed by the Public Works Department (JKR), has the potential to save up to RM115 million annually compared to conventional electricity usage.

The project includes the installation of grid-connected (GCPV) and off-grid (OGPV) systems at 46 Federal Government buildings, 283 rural schools in Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia, four Royal Malaysia Police border posts, and an Orang Asli village. This initiative aligns with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the country's goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Recent project handovers involve six premises, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM), Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). These specific projects have a combined installed capacity of 779.86 kWp, capable of generating 1,070 MWh of electricity per year and avoiding approximately 791 metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions annually.