Sarawak’s New Solar NEM Subsidy (Up to RM12,000): Updated Guide for 2026

Key Takeaways

Sarawak's new NEM Subsidy offers homeowners up to RM12,000 to install rooftop solar starting 2026, making clean energy more affordable than ever. The subsidy applies to landed homes under the domestic tariff, with system sizes ranging from 2 kWac to 50 kWac. Combined with NEL bill credits, most households can significantly reduce monthly electricity bills while supporting the state's renewable energy goals.

Sarawak homeowners now have a compelling reason to go solar — and it’s a big one. Starting 2026, Sarawak Energy will introduce solar subsidies of up to RM12,000 for households installing rooftop solar panels under the state’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme.

This marks a major step in Sarawak’s journey toward cleaner, self-sufficient energy. For the first time, homeowners can not only cut their monthly electricity bills but also earn credits when their solar system exports excess electricity back to the grid.

With energy costs rising and climate concerns growing, the timing couldn’t be better. This new subsidy removes one of the biggest barriers to solar adoption "high upfront costs" making solar more accessible for everyday Sarawakians.

In this updated guide, we explain how the subsidy works, who qualifies, and the technical NEM rules every homeowner needs to know before installing a solar system.

Background: Why Sarawak Has Its Own NEM Scheme

While Peninsular Malaysia uses SEDA's Solar ATAP scheme, Sarawak operates an independent electricity grid managed entirely by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). This gives the state flexibility to design its own NEM programme one tailored to local grid conditions, household energy needs, and long-term renewable energy goals.

If you want to compare with Peninsular Malaysia's system, check out our guide on Solar ATAP Malaysia.

What Is the Sarawak NEM Solar Subsidy?

The Sarawak NEM Solar Subsidy is an initiative by Sarawak Energy to encourage make homeowners to adopt clean solar energy. It provides financial support ranging from RM8,000 to RM12,000, depending on the system size installed.

According to Sarawak Energy’s official NEM page, the subsidy applies to domestic customers who install solar systems between 2 kWac and 50 kWac and participate in the state’s NEM programme.

This tiered structure ensures homeowners of all sizes; from modest residential systems to larger rooftops, can benefit fairly from the programme.

How the NEM Scheme Works in Sarawak

Under Sarawak's NEM arrangement:

1. Your solar system powers your home first.
2. Any extra energy is sent to the grid.
3. You receive energy credits that offset your next electricity bill.

The scheme launches in 2026, and is available exclusively for domestic customers.‍

Unlike SEDA's version in Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak’s NEM is fully operated by Sarawak Energy, making the approval and interconnection process simpler for local homeowners.

You get clean energy, lower bills, and the assurance of a stable grid supply.

Sarawak NEM vs Solar ATAP Malaysia (Quick Comparison)

Learn more about how solar ATAP works in Peninsular Malaysia in our guide on Solar ATAP Malaysia: Quick Guide for Homeowners.

Who Can Apply and What’s Covered

You can apply if:

• You're a domestic account holder under Sarawak Energy
• Your home is a landed property with a suitable roof
• You install a PV system sized 2 kWac to 50 kWac
• You meet SEB's technical requirements

The subsidy helps cover:

• Solar panels
• Inverter
• Mounting structure
• Wiring and connection to SEB's grid
• Required smart meter installation

For example, a typical 3 kW system (usually around RM20,000) could cost as little as RM12,000 after the RM8,000 subsidy.

Benefits of Going Solar Under the Subsidy

By combining the subsidy with NEM, Sarawak homeowners can enjoy:

Lower Upfront Cost

Subsidies up to RM12,000 make solar installations significantly more affordable.

Monthly Bill Savings

Solar can reduce your electricity bill by 60-70%, depending on your usage and roof orientation.

Earn Energy Credits

Exported electricity offsets your future bills, helping you save more over time.

Smaller Carbon Footprint

Solar supports Sarawak's renewable energy vision and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.

Energy solar-powered home strengthens the state’s move towards a low-carbon, energy-secure future.

How to Get Started

The NEM Subsidy application portal will open in 2026. Here’s how to prepare:

1. Check your eligibility ‍

Make sure your property has a valid domestic account under Sarawak Energy.

2. Consult a licensed solar installer‍

Get a site assessment and understand your roof's potential.‍

3. Review system size limits‍

Check whether your home is single-phase or three-phase.‍

4. Prepare documents early

‍Your installer will need drawings, specs, and consumption data for the application.

5. Submit your NEM application

‍Applications must be submitted by SEB Registered Contractors.

6. Wait for inspection and approval‍

SEB will inspect your setup before activating your NEM connection.

If you prefer no upfront payment, you can explore Rent-to-Own solar plans already available in Malaysia.

Conclusion: A Brighter, More Affordable Solar Future for Sarawak

Sarawak’s new solar subsidy of up to RM12,000 makes renewable energy more accessible than ever. Whether your home needs a modest 2 kW system or a larger setup, this scheme helps you save money, lower emissions, and gain energy independence.

With the programme launching in 2026, now is the best time to check your roof's suitability, compare system sizes, and plan ahead to maximise your subsidy once applications open.

Every solar-powered home brings Sarawak closer to a cleaner future, and it all starts with one simple step: making the switch.