KOTA KINABALU: July 31, 2026 – The Sabah government has launched the Sabah People’s Solar Programme, offering rebates of up to RM4,000 to domestic consumers to reduce the cost of installing photovoltaic solar systems in their homes.
The programme operates under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) mechanism, whereby solar energy is used for self-consumption while excess electricity is fed back into the grid and credited against the user’s electricity bill.
Consumers may also access full financing with no upfront costs through companies registered with the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS). These companies bear the cost of installing the solar and battery systems, while users pay via a leasing arrangement based on the savings generated on their electricity bills.
ECoS Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ir. Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid said the rebate is offered at a rate of RM1,000 per kilowatt (kW), capped at a maximum of 4kW for single-phase users. He said the incentive could reduce installation costs by approximately 25 to 30 percent.
“Payment is subsequently made by the user to the company concerned under a leasing concept to enjoy electricity bill savings,” he said.
The Sabah People’s Solar Programme is a key initiative under the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 (SE-RAMP 2040), aimed at strengthening the sustainable energy agenda, increasing the uptake of renewable energy and encouraging public participation in Sabah’s energy transition.
The launch ceremony in Kota Kinabalu on Thursday was officiated by Sabah’s Head of State, Tun Musa Aman. Also present were the Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, representing the Chief Minister; 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.
Source: JAPEN (Sabah Information Department)
