Kuala lumpur: The government is set to introduce a new programme to replace the existing Net Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0 scheme. This announcement is expected to coincide with the implementation of a revised electricity tariff structure aimed at ensuring a fairer distribution of energy subsidies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry Deputy Secretary-General (Energy), Mareena Mahpudz, stated that the government is in the final stages of developing a successor to the NEM 3.0 scheme. This new programme might take the form of a hybrid between NEM and self-consumption (SelCo), or it could be an entirely new initiative.
During a luncheon talk on ‘Driving the Green Energy Transition’, Mareena highlighted that the electricity tariff structure has undergone significant changes starting from July, necessitating the introduction of a new programme. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, emphasized the importance of aligning the new programme with the updated tariff system to gradually reduce reliance on subsidies.
Fadillah explained that the existing SelCo model allows individuals to install solar panels for personal use, with the option to add a battery for extended energy storage. This could extend solar energy usage from approximately three to four hours to as much as seven to eight hours. In situations where solar energy is insufficient, users can still draw power from the grid.
Another model under consideration is the Community Renewable Energy Aggregation Mechanism (CREAM) programme, which focuses on aggregated rooftop solar installations benefiting communities within a five-kilometre radius. Fadillah mentioned that this programme would empower local groups to manage their own energy systems, allowing communities to collectively access subsidies and effectively utilize solar power.
The new approach aims to provide more inclusive access to solar energy, shifting from individual ownership to community-based energy solutions.