Energy-Saving Gadgets and Appliances for Your Home in Malaysia

Electricity costs in Malaysia are climbing, and homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to save electricity, reduce their bills, and promote a sustainable lifestyle. Incorporating energy-saving gadgets and appliances into your home is an effective strategy to achieve significant electricity savings. From Solar panels to energy efficient dehumidifier , these technologies can make a difference in your monthly expenses. This article explores practical methods to save electricity, highlighting how integrating solar panels and other energy-efficient appliances can transform your energy consumption and contribute to a greener future.

The Importance of Energy Saving Electricity in Malaysian Homes

In recent years, electricity bills in Malaysia have increased, putting more strain on household budgets. Starting in 2024, households using between 601 and 1,500 kWh per month saw their bills go up by 4% to 6%, adding about RM12 to RM32 monthly. Since most of Malaysia’s electricity comes from fossil fuels, high electricity use also leads to more pollution, contributing to climate change. By choosing energy-saving appliances and making small changes to save electricity, homeowners can lower both their bills and their impact on the environment.

Smart Choices on Energy-Saving Appliances and Gadgets

Solar Panels

Installing solar panels is one of the most impactful ways to reduce electricity costs in the long run. Malaysia’s abundant sunlight makes solar energy an ideal solution for sustainable power generation. By installing solar panel, homeowners can save electricity by generating their own renewable energy, offsetting much of their electricity consumption and significantly lowering monthly bills. In addition to the immediate savings, solar system owners may be eligible for government incentives that make the investment even more attractive.

Programs like tax rebates, grants, or subsidies can help reduce the upfront costs of solar installations, making it more affordable for homeowners. Some programs even allow solar panel owners to sell excess energy back to the grid, creating an opportunity to earn income from their system. These incentives not only make solar power more accessible but also improve the overall return on investment.

Air conditioning

Air conditioning is a necessity in Malaysia’s hot climate, but it can also be one of the biggest energy consumers. According to the National Environment Agency, to maximise efficiency, choose the right cooling capacity for your space—oversized or undersized units are less efficient. Choose for models with higher energy efficiency ratings (energy rating label). For example, a 2-tick model could cost up to RM303 more annually in electricity compared to a 5-star energy rating model. Consider the Life Cycle Cost (LCC), which includes both the purchase price and estimated electricity cost over the unit’s lifespan. Choosing energy-efficient air conditioning units is a key way to save electricity and lower your monthly bills, creating a positive impact on both your finances and the environment.

Life Cycle Cost = Purchase Cost + Estimated Electricity Cost over 10 years Lifespan (Annual Energy Cost × 10)

Calculate LCC for different models based on NEA here.

Lighting

Switching to LED bulbs is a simple yet effective way to save electricity costs. LEDs use up to 25% less electricity than compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and last about 2.5 times longer. For instance, replacing a 12W CFL with a 9W LED bulb can save electricity without compromising brightness. Installing motion sensors in areas like hallways or bathrooms can further reduce energy waste, as lights will only turn on when needed. Additionally, maximising natural light by using light-coloured curtains and placing mirrors can help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Reference : NEA Website

Refrigerators

Since refrigerators run continuously, they are significant energy users in most households. Choosing the smallest model that meets your needs can help save electricity. Energy-efficient refrigerators with higher energy ratings (more ticks) use less power; for instance, a 2-tick model may cost about $59 more per year in electricity compared to a 3-tick model. Additionally, avoid models with extra features like automatic ice makers, which can increase energy consumption. Considering the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) is also beneficial when purchasing a refrigerator, as models with a lower LCC save more in the long term.

Kitchen Appliances

Energy-efficient cooking appliances like thermal cooking pots, pressure cookers, and induction cooktops reduce power consumption. For example, induction cooktops heat only the cookware directly, making them more efficient than traditional electric stoves. Using thermal pots and pressure cookers can also cut cooking times, saving energy. When it comes to hot water, using a thermos flask instead of an electric air-pot can reduce electricity costs; electric air-pots can add up to RM288 annually to your electricity bill if used regularly.

Solar Panels: A Closer Look at Long-Term Benefits

Solar panels capture sunlight during the day and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity, as shown in the picture. This DC power flows from the panels to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity, suitable for home use. The AC electricity powers various appliances like air conditioners, lights, and other home devices, reducing the need for energy from the grid. Any excess energy produced can be sent back to the grid through the TNB meter, earning credits that can offset future electricity bills. By generating your own electricity, you cut down on grid consumption, lower monthly bills, and contribute to a cleaner environment. Learn more about how solar panel work

The Malaysian government also offers incentives that make solar panels even more worthwhile. Programs like the Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) rebate and the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme let you save even more by earning credits for any extra energy you produce. Under the NEM Rakyat 3.0 program, homeowners can send excess energy back to the grid and receive credits, which reduce future electricity bills.

For example, if you install a solar system with around 11 panels, generating about 500 kWh of electricity each month, you could save approximately RM330 on your monthly bill. Since some of this energy is generated during the day when your household might not need as much power, the surplus energy goes back to the grid. With NEM, you earn credits for this extra energy, which can be used to offset costs when you need grid electricity at night or during cloudy days. Learn more about the benefits of solar panel

Go Solar with GetSolar’s Affordable Rent-to-Own Program

Installing solar panels can seem financially daunting, especially with the high upfront costs. GetSolar’s Rent-to-Own Program is designed to make solar power accessible to more homeowners by spreading out the cost, making it easier to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without a big initial investment.

Get Your Free Estimate

Making Solar Affordable

High upfront costs often stop people from going solar, but GetSolar’s Rent-to-Own Program solves this. Instead of paying everything at once, you can make small monthly payments. This lets you start saving on electricity bills immediately while working toward owning your solar system.

Comprehensive Service and Support

GetSolar handles everything from installation to maintenance, ensuring your solar system is set up properly and runs smoothly. If any issues arise, our team is ready to help, giving you peace of mind.

Ease and Convenience

GetSolar makes going solar simple, guiding you from consultation to activation. Flexible payment plans are tailored to your needs, so switching to solar is easy and stress-free. Enjoy affordable, clean energy without the hassle.

‍

‍

‍