In a landmark development for Malaysia’s sustainable energy landscape, Sime Darby Property has inaugurated the nation’s inaugural residential rooftop solar program under the National Energy Transition Roadmap. This pioneering endeavor, executed via the Community Renewable Energy Aggregation Mechanism, establishes a new benchmark for community-driven renewable energy projects. Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof presided over the official launch ceremony at the Elmina Sales Gallery, signaling strong governmental endorsement for this transformative initiative.
The pilot scheme introduces an innovative rooftop leasing arrangement that enables homeowners in the City of Elmina township to become energy producers without any initial capital outlay. Under this model, residents receive rental income for hosting solar installations while simultaneously supporting Malaysia’s transition toward cleaner energy sources. Sime Darby Property, serving as the Local Energy Generator Aggregator, will oversee installation and management operations in partnership with GSPARX, a Tenaga Nasional Berhad subsidiary providing technical expertise.
The renewable electricity generated through this program will be transmitted via TNB’s distribution network to the adjacent Innovation Park, situated within five kilometers of the participating residences. This commercial entity will function as the Local Green Consumer, creating a closed-loop energy ecosystem. Future expansion possibilities are being evaluated with various potential off-takers, including fuel stations, commercial centers, and educational institutions that have indicated interest in joining the program.
Datuk Seri Azmir Merican, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Property, emphasized that this pilot demonstrates how residential communities can actively contribute to national sustainability objectives. He noted that the initiative transforms homeowners into key stakeholders in the green energy value chain while potentially enhancing property values and generating supplemental income. Azmir extended appreciation to government agencies and strategic partners whose collaboration made this groundbreaking project feasible.
TNB’s Chief Executive Officer Datuk Megat Jalaluddin Megat Hassan affirmed the utility company’s commitment to supporting NETR objectives through this innovative community energy model. The installation incorporates Malaysia’s first Community Energy Storage System, designed to improve grid stability while providing residents with more reliable clean energy. Sime Darby Property intends to replicate this framework across additional townships, positioning the organization as a crucial private sector contributor to Malaysia’s aspiration of reaching 70% renewable energy capacity by 2050.