Ipoh: The installation of solar power generation systems at government-aided schools (SBK) has the potential to be expanded to more institutions to help reduce electricity costs. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh announced the initiative, explaining that the pilot project under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0 scheme would enable schools to save between RM1,500 to RM1,700 in electricity bills each month through a Zero CAPEX approach, which allows solar panels to be installed at no cost to schools.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wong highlighted the success of the solar energy generation system project at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina SJK(C) Sam Chai, implemented through the efforts of Ipoh Timur MP Howard Lee Chuan How. The electricity bill savings over the next 20 years are expected to reach approximately RM382,000, with monthly savings projected to average between RM1,500 and RM1,700. This initiative not only provides financial relief but also supports the government's policy to develop renewable energy in the country.

Wong further elaborated that the model not only allows schools to generate electricity for their own use but also enables the sale of excess energy back to Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), reducing financial pressures on school management boards. Additionally, the solar installations at schools serve as an educational platform, allowing students to gain firsthand experience in renewable energy and environmental conservation.

Wong emphasized the importance of nurturing environmental values from a young age, stating, "We are not merely teaching renewable energy through textbooks. Students can see for themselves how the system works and how it helps protect the planet."

However, Wong noted that there is currently no specific target for expanding the programme to more schools under the ministry, as electricity bills for government schools are fully covered by the government. The initiative was developed by the Ipoh Timur parliamentary service centre in collaboration with GSPARX.

Meanwhile, Howard Lee revealed his office has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 15 more schools to implement similar projects. The cooperation model developed with GSPARX and TNB after more than a year of discussions serves as a reference for other SBK nationwide.

Lee pointed out that unused rooftops on government assets, sports facilities, and government-aided schools can be utilized for solar installations to generate green energy. He stated, "The discussions resulted in a format, model, and terms of reference that can guide other schools, particularly government-aided schools seeking to reduce energy consumption and electricity costs."

Lee added that the model would be expanded to other areas, including Teluk Intan, Taiping, and Bagan Serai, with Malaysia100 continuing to facilitate interested schools in implementing the initiative.