Malaysia’s solar energy journey is entering a new phase. With the conclusion of the Net Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0 programme earlier this year, the government has announced a brand-new replacement: the Solar Accelerated Transition Action Programme (Solar ATAP).
Source : The Edge Malaysia
Set to launch on 1 December 2025, this initiative—announced by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA)—will provide consumers with a more flexible and sustainable way to adopt solar energy.
What is Solar ATAP?
Solar ATAP is designed to build on the strengths of the NEM and NOVA (Net Offset Virtual Aggregation) schemes, while addressing some of their limitations. The programme continues the principle of energy offset, allowing consumers to reduce electricity bills with power generated from their rooftop solar systems.
The key difference is in how solar exports are credited. Under Solar ATAP, excess energy exported to the grid will be offset at the System Marginal Price (SMP) — the wholesale electricity clearing price that fluctuates every 30 minutes — instead of fixed credit rates. This ensures a more dynamic and market-reflective value for your exported solar energy.
Official guidelines will be released on 1 December 2025 via the Energy Commission (Suruhanjaya Tenaga, ST) and Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) websites.
Solar ATAP vs. NEM 3.0: What’s New?
The key difference is in how solar exports are credited. Under Solar ATAP, excess energy exported to the grid will be offset at the System Marginal Price (SMP) — the wholesale electricity clearing price that fluctuates every 30 minutes — instead of fixed credit rates. This ensures a more dynamic and market-reflective value for your exported solar energy.
Key Highlights of ATAP
– Unlimited Quota
– Solar Capacity
- LV (Low Voltage): 100% Fuse Rating / CT Ratio
→ For homes and small businesses connected at low voltage, the size of the solar system you can install is now allowed up to 100% of your electrical fuse rating or current transformer (CT) ratio. - MVHV (Medium Voltage / High Voltage): 100% MD (Maximum Demand)
→ For larger commercial or industrial customers connected at medium or high voltage, solar installation capacity can now go up to 100% of your maximum demand (MD).
– Eligibility
Open To All TNB Customers. OPC and LPC, Tariff Domestic and Non-Domestic, including existing NEM and SELCO customers.
– Contract Period
Lifetime
Comparision Chart NEM3.0 & ATAP
Why Solar ATAP Matters?
Benefits
✅ No capacity cap – Install solar systems up to 100% of your maximum demand.
✅ Lifetime offset – No more 10-year contract limits.
✅ Lower electricity bills – Offset more of your usage with self-generated solar.
✅ Transparent pricing – Credits reflect wholesale electricity costs.
✅ Open to all – Broader eligibility with unlimited quota.
Considerations
⚠️ Variable offset values – Because SMP changes every 30 minutes, your export credit may fluctuate.
⚠️ Details pending – Tariff adjustments, grid fees, and technical requirements are yet to be confirmed.
⚠️ Upfront investment – Solar panels, installation, and optional batteries still require capital.
How to Prepare for Solar ATAP?
Check your rooftop suitability – Solartech offers a FREE roof assessment to evaluate shading, orientation, and space.
Understand your energy usage – Review your bills to see when you use the most electricity.
Consider battery storage – If your consumption is higher at night, storage may maximise savings.
Stay updated – Monitor announcements from ST and SEDA for registration details.
Act early – Demand is high; applying quickly increases your chances of getting favourable terms.
Get Your Free Solar Quotation Today
Thinking about switching to solar? Whether for home or business, Solartech can help you design a system that maximises savings under Solar ATAP.
