Malaysia enjoys abundant sunshine all year round, yet solar energy remains a minor player in the country’s electricity supply. With climate change worsening and fossil fuel prices rising, why Malaysia isn’t yet leading the way in solar energy? The country has all the natural resources required to make this bold transition, however, it seems like something is holding us back.
While other nations are moving forward with their dependency on renewable energy for the better future, why does Malaysia still cling to exploiting coal and gas, resulting in the rising electricity costs due to the decrease in fossil fuels reserves? Countries like Germany and the UK, with far less sunlight, have successfully integrated solar power into their energy grids. Malaysia, with its tropical climate, should have an even greater advantage, yet it remains dependent on fossil fuels.
Many claim that heavy rainfall and frequent cloud cover make solar unreliable, but advancements in battery storage and smart grids have already addressed these challenges in other parts of the world. If technology is no longer the issue, why is Malaysia still lagging behind?
A key reason is that coal and gas have long been the main sources of energy in Malaysia. They have been used for decades, making them the familiar and convenient choice. However, what’s often overlooked is the hidden cost of relying on these fuels. The price of electricity is affected by fluctuating global fuel prices, and fossil fuel-based energy generation comes with environmental concerns.
Solar power, on the other hand, offers a long-term solution with stable costs once the initial setup is done. Beyond cost, solar energy also provides independence. Households and businesses that install solar panels can generate their own electricity, reducing their reliance on traditional power providers. In some cases, excess energy can even be sent back to the grid, providing additional savings. This shift is already happening in many parts of the world, allowing consumers to have more control over their electricity usage and expenses.
Despite these obstacles, Malaysia is making some progress. Government initiatives like the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program have encouraged more solar adoption, and awareness of renewable energy is growing. However, the rate of adoption is still much slower than it could be. Neighboring countries like Vietnam have surged ahead in solar energy due to strong policies and aggressive incentives, proving that rapid progress is possible when the right strategies are in place.
Malaysia has the resources, the technology, and the public interest needed to move forward. The only question is whether the country will take bold action or allow outdated policies and corporate interests to keep it stuck in the past. Malaysia is at a crossroads. The potential for a solar-powered future is within reach, but without decisive action, the country risks falling further behind.
Is Malaysia truly committed to embracing renewable energy, or will it continue to be trapped in an outdated reliance on fossil fuels? If high electricity bills and climate concerns aren’t enough to spark change, what will it take?
