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Here's everything we know so far about Solar ATAP
Since Net Energy Metering (NEM) ended in June 2025, Malaysians have been searching for answers like:
- When is the new solar programme starting?
- Should I wait for Solar ATAP or install solar now?
- Will solar ATAP let me export like NEM?
- How will System Marginal Price (SMP) work?
- Is SELCO still relevant?
This update gives clarity on timing, what we know, and how to plan for 2026.
1. What is Solar ATAP?
Solar ATAP is Malaysia’s upcoming national rooftop solar programme — built to take over where NEM left off. Here’s what’s officially confirmed:
- Solar ATAP will allow any excess solar energy to be exported back to the TNB grid.
- Export will follow System Marginal Price (SMP) — a market-based rate.
- It is the next major solar scheme for homes and businesses planning solar in 2026.
- Full programme details will only be released on 31 December 2025.
No technical assumptions beyond official announcement — all further details will come from Suruhanjaya Tenaga’s guidelines on 31 December 2025.
2. When can I apply for Solar ATAP?
- Guidelines released: 31 December 2025.
- Applications open: 1 January 2026 onwards (via SEDA Portal)
If you’re applying solar through Sunview, our team will support you through the entire process once the official guidelines are out — including preparation, submissions, and liaison with the relevant authorities, just like we did for NEM and previous solar schemes.
3. What solar programs are available right now?
SELCO (Self-Consumption) is Malaysia’s current active solar mechanism. Under SELCO:
- You use all the solar you generate for your building.
- Any excess solar energy generated (if any) is not allowed to be exported back to the TNB grid.
- Well suited for continuous-operation facilities such as factories and warehouses running 24/7.
- Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is required for systems above 72kWp from 1 Jan 2026.
4. Should I wait for Solar ATAP or Get SELCO now?
Waiting for Solar ATAP may benefit you if you:
- Want the ability to export and earn back from excess solar generation
- Prefer to decide after seeing the full official guideline
- Want to compare export earnings vs self-consumption savings
Installing under SELCO now may benefit you if you:
- Want immediate bill reduction
- Use most of your electricity during the day
- Don’t rely on export or ROI
- Prefer to lock in savings now rather than wait
Both options have different strengths — the right choice depends on your building’s load profile and your 2026 plans.
Solar ATAP vs SELCO: Which may suits your operations better?
5. What you can prepare now
Even before the guideline is released, these steps help you prepare for a smooth ATAP or SELCO decision:
- Review your electricity bills (kWh usage, peak hour usage, usage pattern)
- Identify if your load is daytime-heavy or balanced
- Check your roof space availability and if there are any shading around
- Decide if export is important for your payback
- Understand your 2026 operation plans (extended hours, new machinery, renovation, business growth)
6. Summary: What Malaysians Should Know Right Now
- Solar ATAP is the next national rooftop solar programme
- Guidelines release: 31 Dec 2025
- Applications open: 1 Jan 2026
- ATAP will allow export using System Marginal Price (market rate)
- SELCO remains the current active option
- Wait for ATAP if export matters
- Choose SELCO if daytime use is high and want instant savings.
When the Solar ATAP guidelines are published, we will break down the full document and explain what it means for you — from eligibility to export rules — so you can confidently choose the right solar option for your home or business in 2026.
Next read: SELCO: Everything You Need to Know About Malaysia’s Current Solar Programme
*Disclaimer: For informational use only. Seek professional advice before proceeding.
