Everything about Net Energy Metering in Malaysia. Understand NEM Rakyat, NOVA, export rates, and how it compares to Solar ATAP.
NEM (Net Energy Metering) is Malaysia's solar program administered by SEDA that allows you to offset your electricity bill by exporting excess solar energy to the TNB grid. When your solar panels produce more than you use, the excess is exported and credited against your bill at a 1:1 rate (within the same billing period).
For residential consumers. System size up to 72kW. 1:1 offset rate. Has quota limits.
For commercial & industrial. Up to 1MW (special approval for larger). Virtual power purchase available.
For government buildings. Special program for federal and state government facilities.
NEM programs have annual quota limits. Once quota is full, new applications go on waiting list.
Over 96,000 rooftop solar users under MBIPV and NEM schemes continue to receive export credits under their original programme rules.
Sources: SEDA Malaysia, Ministry of Energy
Understanding which program is right for you
| Feature | NEM 3.0 | Solar ATAP |
|---|---|---|
| Quota | Limited annual quota | No quota limit |
| Export Credit Rate | 1:1 (within billing period) | 1:1 (with monthly rollover) |
| Credit Rollover | No - expires end of billing period | Yes - rolls to next month |
| System Type | Rooftop or ground-mounted | Rooftop only (ATAP = roof) |
| Max Size (Residential) | 72 kW | 72 kW |
| Available Since | 2019 (NEM 3.0) | January 2026 |
| Registration | Through SEDA | Through SEDA |
Recommendation: For new residential installations in 2026, Solar ATAP is generally better due to no quota restrictions and credit rollover. For commercial installations requiring ground-mounted systems, NEM NOVA remains the option.
For: Residential
For: Commercial & Industrial
For: Government
NEM quota varies by year and fills up quickly. Check with SEDA or your installer for current availability. Solar ATAP (from 2026) has no quota limits, making it a better option for most new installations.
Under NEM 3.0, excess credits expire at the end of each billing period - you cannot carry them forward. This is a key difference from Solar ATAP which allows monthly rollover.
Existing NEM installations may be able to migrate to Solar ATAP. Check with SEDA for migration procedures and any implications for your existing registration.
NEM programs are primarily for Peninsular Malaysia under TNB. Sabah (SESB) and Sarawak (SEB) have their own programs - check with respective utilities.
Not sure whether NEM or Solar ATAP is right for you? Contact us for a free consultation. We'll analyze your situation and recommend the best program.