The Sabah government has introduced the Sabah People’s Solar Programme, a new initiative that offers rebates of up to RM4,000 to encourage households to install rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. The programme is designed to make solar energy more affordable for domestic consumers while supporting the state’s long-term renewable energy goals.
The incentive is available under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) mechanism, which allows homeowners to use the electricity generated by their solar systems for their own consumption. Any surplus electricity produced can be exported to the power grid, with the value credited against the consumer’s electricity bill, helping reduce overall energy costs.
To further improve accessibility, the programme also provides an option for consumers to install solar systems without paying any upfront costs. This is made possible through financing arrangements offered by companies registered with the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS). Under this model, the registered companies fund and install the solar panels and battery systems, while homeowners repay the cost through a leasing arrangement based on the savings generated from lower electricity bills.
According to ECoS Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ir. Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid, the rebate is set at RM1,000 per kilowatt (kW), with a maximum incentive of RM4,000 for single-phase residential users installing systems of up to 4kW. He noted that the rebate could reduce installation costs by around 25% to 30%, making rooftop solar more affordable for households.
The Sabah People’s Solar Programme forms an important part of the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 (SE-RAMP 2040). The initiative aims to accelerate renewable energy adoption, strengthen the state’s sustainable energy agenda, and encourage greater public participation in Sabah’s energy transition.
The programme was officially launched in Kota Kinabalu by Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman. The ceremony was attended by several senior state leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk James Ratib, Rural Development Minister Datuk Rubin Balang, Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Maijol Mahap, and ECoS Chairman Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Maximus Ongkili.
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