SOLAR RAKYAT SABAH is a programme that allows domestic consumers in Sabah to install solar PV systems on their residential premises primarily for self-consumption. Any excess energy generated can be exported back to the grid through a Net Energy Metering (NEM) mechanism to offset electricity bills.
The contract for exporting excess energy remains in effect for a term of twelve (12) years from the commissioning date. After this period, the system will be registered for self-consumption only.
You can apply if you are a Domestic Category consumer (occupying a private dwelling not used for business) of Sabah Electricity (SE). You must either be a new consumer, an existing consumer who has not participated in previous solar programmes (existing consumers wishing to convert must cancel their current solar programme before applying for Solar Rakyat), or an existing NEM 1.0 consumer.
The maximum capacity is determined by your electricity supply type:
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Single Phase: Up to 5 kWac.
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Three Phase: Up to 10 kWac.
Only PV panels mounted on the rooftop or porch of the building within the same premise are permitted. Ground-mounted installations are strictly prohibited.
All applications must be submitted through the ECoS Energy Information System (EEISy) online platform. You must appoint an ECoS-registered Electrical Contractor with Class PV (Grid-Connected) [ECCPV (GC)] to manage and submit the application on your behalf.
No fee is charged for the application submitted to the Commission. However, the consumer is responsible for all costs related to equipment, installation, and the bi-directional meter.
ECoS will notify applicants of the outcome within fourteen (14) working days of receiving a complete submission. If approved, a SOLAR RAKYAT Approval to Install (SRATI) will be issued.
You must commence installation within three (3) months from the date of approval. Failure to do so will result in the application being deemed withdrawn or cancelled.
Yes, you may install a BESS, but it must be configured strictly for self-consumption. Energy from the battery is not permitted to be exported to the grid, and your inverter must be capable of enforcing this mode.
A bi-directional meter (supplied by the Distribution Licensee) will replace your standard meter to measure both imported and exported energy. You are also required to install and maintain a PV meter to measure the total energy produced by your solar system.
You can only begin operation once the Commission issues a SOLAR RAKYAT Approval to Operate (SRATO). This is issued by ECoS after your contractor performs Testing & Commissioning (T&C) and uploads the necessary reports to the EEISy portal.
Your bill is calculated based on Net Energy:
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Net Charge (RM) |
= |
(Imported Energy × Rate) |
– |
(Exported Energy × Rate) |
The credit for exported energy is based on the prevailing gazetted energy rate for domestic consumers.
Credits can roll over for a maximum of 12 months within a Settlement Period (running from January 1st to December 31st). Any credits remaining at the end of the Settlement Period are forfeited and cannot be claimed as cash.
The new owner can apply to continue the SOLAR RAKYAT programme for the remaining duration of the 12-year term. A new contract must be signed between the new owner and the Distribution Licensee.
No, credits are non-transferable to other accounts or third parties.
You must provide three (3) working days' written notice to the Distribution Licensee. Upon termination, any remaining credits in your account will be adjusted to zero without compensation.
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The application form lists several financial models for the installation:
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Outright/Direct Purchase.
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Bank Loan.
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Solar Leasing
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Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).