Latest news with #NetEnergyMetering
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Groups head to California Supreme Court, seeking to upend solar rules
SAN DIEGO - In a few days, three environmental groups - including one from San Diego - get their chance to try to persuade the California Supreme Court to overturn a controversial rooftop solar policy issued by the California Public Utilities Commission nearly three years ago. "We've been working on this for a long time and we hope the court makes the right decision," said Roger Lin, senior attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday in Los Angeles. The case centers on whether the utilities commission, known as the CPUC, made the legally correct call when it changed the rules regarding how the estimated 2 million rooftop solar customers in California get compensated when their systems generate more electricity than they consume. In December 2022, the CPUC's five commissioners unanimously voted to approve the third iteration of the state's Net Energy Metering program, dubbed NEM 3.0. The complex 260-page decision included incentives to encourage customers to pair their solar installations with battery storage systems. But the portion of the decision that raised the most hackles revised the rules so that new rooftop solar customers would no longer be credited at the retail rate of electricity when their systems generated surplus energy. Instead, they get paid at the "actual avoided cost," which is lower. The CPUC's decision, which went into effect in April 2023, said the change sends "more accurate price signals that encourage electrification" across the state. The commission determined that changes need to be made, agreeing in large part with California utilities who said the earlier NEM rules were too generous. They argued that the growing number of rooftop installations leads to a "cost shift" that leaves customers who don't have solar paying an unfair share of the fixed costs that come with maintaining the electric system - substations, transformers, poles and wires, etc. But opponents of the CPUC decision have long disputed the cost-shift argument, saying that it does not properly take into account the benefits of rooftop solar, such as reducing the need for utilities to spend ratepayer dollars on building more infrastructure. They also argue that the lower compensation rate undercuts the incentive for potential customers to put solar on their roofs because it will take longer for new customers to recoup the cost of spending thousands of dollars on their installations. Shortly after the CPUC decision, the Center for Biological Diversity, the Environmental Working Group and San Diego-based Protect Our Communities Foundation tried to overturn NEM 3.0's rules. After the CPUC rebuffed the groups' request for a rehearing, the trio took their case to the California Court of Appeals. But in a 40-page ruling in December 2023, Associate Justice Victor Rodríguez authored a 3-0 decision upholding the CPUC's decision, saying, "We must give 'great weight' to the Commission's interpretation of the provisions of the Public Utilities Code." Rodríguez went on to write, "This uniquely deferential standard of review is accorded the Commission because of its status as 'a constitutional body with broad legislative and judicial powers.' " Undeterred, the three groups petitioned the California Supreme Court to hear their case, and last year the high court agreed. It's on the docket for oral arguments before all seven justices during Wednesday's morning session. "This case revolves around whether the Public Utilities Commission actually looked at the cost and benefits of rooftop solar, specifically," said Lin of the Center for Biological Diversity, citing a statute passed by the state Legislature that calls on the CPUC to promote the growth of renewable power in the state. The petitioners also argue the appeals court gave too much deference to the CPUC and the ruling did not go far enough to help disadvantaged communities. A spokesperson for the CPUC declined to comment on the commission's defense of its NEM 3.0 ruling, citing the "ongoing litigation," but referred to the arguments made in the appeals court ruling. Court observers say it's very unlikely the California Supreme Court will issue a ruling on Wednesday; rather, a decision is expected in about month or so. With more than 2 million solar systems atop homes, businesses and other locations, California has more rooftop installations than any state in the nation. As the new rules are currently written, solar customers who had their systems installed under earlier iterations of NEM still get compensated at the retail rate for 20 years from the time their systems were installed before they are switched to the new rules. For example, a customer who had a system installed in 2018 gets credited at the retail rate until 2038. But after that, the customer will be credited at the lower NEM 3.0 rate. Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
The Star
7 days ago
- Business
- The Star
TIME TO SWITCH TO SOLAR
More Malaysians are discovering the benefits of solar energy as they adopt greener and more sustainable lifestyles. Solar energy, once considered a luxury only for the wealthy or eco-enthusiasts, is fast becoming a practical and affordable upgrade for landed homeowners. Thanks to improved access, lower entry costs and supportive government initiatives such as the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme, switching to solar power has never been more attractive for Malaysian homeowners. One of the biggest draws is the potential for significant monthly savings – many households with rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have reported electricity bill reductions of 30% to 50%, depending on the size of their system and overall energy usage. While the initial investment might seem steep, the long-term value is clear. Most homeowners recover their installation costs within six to eight years and continue to enjoy substantial savings for another 15 to 20 years after that. Beyond cost savings, solar systems can also increase a property's resale value, especially in urban areas where energy-efficient features are increasingly sought after. Understanding the NEM Scheme The NEM scheme was introduced by the government for consumers to reduce their electricity bills. You can generate your own electricity by installing rooftop solar PV system for your own consumption. Now in its third iteration, NEM 3.0 was introduced with new quotas and initiatives divided into categories like NEM Rakyat (for homeowners), NEM GoMEn (for government ministries and agencies), and NOVA (for commercial and industrial users). Under the NEM Rakyat scheme, any excess electricity your solar panels generate is exported to the grid. You earn credits for this, which are then used to offset energy usage from the grid – lowering your TNB bill in the process. In simpler terms, the more solar energy your system produces, the less you pay for electricity every month. It's a win-win situation for both your wallet and the environment. The technology behind solar PV cells has created greater efficiency in absorbing sunlight, further enhancing the solar energy capture and efficiency. With advancements in solar inverter technology, today's rooftop solar PV systems are capable of offering greater energy conversion and cost savings. These developments have made solar power accessible to a broader group of Malaysians – not just the affluent few – to become 'prosumers' (producer and consumer) of green energy. Today's homeowners also benefit from: > New financing models that allow you to install rooftop solar PV with minimal upfront cost, often through monthly repayments. > Government incentives and rebates, which lower the overall cost of going solar. > Zero-interest payment plans offered by some providers to ease the financial burden further. Ravi Kumar, a homeowner from Penang, says: 'Switching to solar has been one of the best financial decisions we've made for our home. 'Our electricity bill used to average RM700 a month, especially with the air conditioning running constantly during the hotter periods. 'Now, it's consistently under RM50, sometimes even receiving a small credit back from TNB! The installation was smooth, and the team was incredibly professional. We're not just saving money; we're also proud to be doing our part for the environment.' For environmentally-conscious homeowners like Ravi, the appeal of solar extends beyond the ringgit and sen. A typical residential solar setup can reduce carbon emissions by several tonnes each year – the equivalent of planting dozens of trees annually. This makes solar adoption a personal contribution to Malaysia's broader sustainability goals and its move towards a low-carbon economy. Is solar right for you? Solar solutions work best for landed properties with ample roof space and high daylight exposure. Next, review your monthly electricity bill over the period needed to recover the long-term investment for the solar system. > Get a professional assessment of your roof's solar potential: Not all roofs are created equal when it comes to solar energy. Engage a certified solar PV service provider to evaluate key factors such as your roof's orientation, tilt angle, shading from nearby trees or buildings, and available space. This assessment will help determine how many panels your roof can accommodate, the optimal positioning for maximum sunlight exposure and the potential energy output. > Compare offers from certified solar PV service providers: Don't settle for the first quote. Approach multiple reputable and certified PV service providers to compare packages. Look at pricing, equipment quality, warranties, installation timelines and after-sales service. Check if the providers are registered under the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (Seda) or other relevant bodies. > Understand the NEM application process and what incentives you qualify for: Malaysia's NEM scheme allows residential users to export excess electricity generated from their solar panels back to the grid for rebates or credits based on available NEM quota. Recently, the government announced an additional 100MW quota for NEM Rakyat after the original allocation of 600MW was fully subscribed. Learn how the NEM application works, including eligibility requirements, documentation needed, approval timelines and integration with your electricity bill. Also, explore any government rebates, tax incentives or green financing options available to reduce your upfront costs. Being well-informed about these mechanisms can significantly improve the return on your solar investment. Learn more about how Net Energy Metering by clicking here to view website
Barnama
26-05-2025
- General
- Barnama
PETRA,TNB To Install Solar PV Systems In Mosques, Promoting Energy Transition
PASIR PUTEH, May 26 (Bernama) -- The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA), through Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) corporate social responsibility initiative, will install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at two mosques with an allocation of RM130,698. PETRA secretary-general Datuk Mad Zaidi Mohd Karli said the mosques, Masjid Al-Hijrah at the Fishermen Resettlement Area (PSN) in Tok Bali, Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, and Masjid Al Huda in Kampung Rantau Abang, Dungun, Terengganu, received allocations of RM41,999 and RM88,699 respectively. He said the installations would reduce monthly electricity bills, promote environmental sustainability, raise community awareness, and help lower carbon emissions by replacing conventional energy sources with solar power. "These CSR projects are crucial in our efforts to bring the energy transition closer to the people, and solar power is one of the key initiatives under PETRA. "We call on other companies to follow TNB's example and take part in this energy transition efforts," he said when met at Masjid Al-Hijrah recently. He said the solar PV systems will be installed under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) GoMen scheme, whereby solar energy generated during the day will be used for electricity, and any excess energy will be exported to the TNB grid. "The exported excess will be recorded and reimported for use at night," he said. Meanwhile, the imam of Masjid Al-Hijrah PSN Tok Bali, Amirul Mukminin Mohd Roslan, said the solar project would benefit more than 1,200 residents. "InsyaAllah, there will be more programmes and activities at the mosque, especially at night, once the solar system is installed. It will also help reduce the monthly electricity bill," he said.
Barnama
26-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
NEM Rakyat Quota Increased By 100MW, Total Now 600MW
PUTRAJAYA, May 23 (Bernama) — The quota for the Net Energy Metering (NEM) programme under the domestic category, known as NEM Rakyat, has been increased by an additional 100 megawatts (MW), bringing the total quota allocated since the programme's inception in 2011 to 700MW. In a statement today, the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA) said the additional quota is now open to all domestic users under Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) until June 30, or until the quota is fully subscribed — whichever comes first. PETRA said the move follows an overwhelming response from the public, which led to the exhaustion of the existing NEM Rakyat quota. 'In light of the strong interest, PETRA has decided to expand the NEM Rakyat quota to enable more domestic users to harness their rooftop spaces for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems,' the statement read. The latest guidelines for the NEM Rakyat programme can be accessed via the Energy Commission's website at while further details on the application process are available on the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia's website at The ministry also said that PETRA, together with the Energy Commission (ST) as the regulatory authority for the electricity supply industry, is currently reviewing new mechanisms and implementation methods for rooftop solar initiatives. The aim is to ensure that upcoming renewable energy (RE) initiatives are more inclusive, equitable and beneficial to all electricity consumers. 'As the lead agency driving the national energy transition agenda, PETRA remains committed to enhancing and expanding the implementation of rooftop solar initiatives as part of a broader effort to support Malaysia's energy transition aspirations,' PETRA said. It also reaffirmed Malaysia's goal of achieving 70 per cent renewable energy capacity in the national electricity supply mix by 2050 — a key pillar in the country's sustainable development agenda and a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability and energy resource security.
The Star
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Govt encourages local councils to use Solar PV systems
Sun power: Fadillah inspecting the Solar PV installation at the MBKT Tower, Kuala Terengganu. — Bernama KUALA TERENGGANU: The government is opening opportunities for all parties, especially local authorities, to adopt solar photovoltaic (Solar PV) systems as part of efforts to transition towards clean energy. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said that by installing Solar PV systems at their premises, these entities can save on electricity consumption, generate new renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, cited the example of the Kuala Terengganu City Council (MBKT) initiative, which installed Solar PV systems at the MBKT Tower's parking area and rooftop. 'The Solar PV system at MBKT is the largest installed on a building owned by a local authority under the Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) programme, under the NEM GoMEN category, approved by the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia on Dec 16, 2021. 'It has been operational since Jan 2, 2024, and is estimated to generate 1,147 megawatt-hours (MWh) of green electricity annually, resulting in estimated electricity bill savings of 11% or over RM200,000 per year,' he told reporters after inspecting the Solar PV installation at the MBKT Tower yesterday, Bernama reported. The event took place during the ministry's Petra Squad east zone roadshow, a two-day event held in Kelantan and Terengganu that started on Friday. Fadillah said the Petra Squad tour continued to the Large-Scale Solar (LSS) Coara Marang plant to observe its operation firsthand, which is part of the government's initiative under the LSS3 programme. 'The energy capacity generated by this plant is estimated to supply electricity to more than 10,000 households daily and is among the most advanced solar plants in terms of technology and efficiency. 'Besides helping to reduce carbon emissions, the LSS Coara Marang project also serves as a model for disaster-resilient solar plant design suitable for development in flood-prone areas, thereby strengthening the resilience of the country's energy sector,' he said. Fadillah said the roadshow concluded with a visit to the biogas power plant operated by Concord Biotech Sdn Bhd in Kemaman. He said the development of the biogas power plant involved an investment of RM21mil, including the installation of two biogas engines with a total capacity of 2.404 megawatts, using biogas derived from palm oil mill effluent. The plant commenced commercial operation on March 12, 2022, with the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia approving the feed-in-tariff quota on Feb 18, 2019. 'As of March 31, 2025, the power plant has generated 29,158MWh of electricity, equivalent to avoiding 22,568 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions,' he said.
