Can’t afford solar panels? Start by cutting energy waste

Lower-income households often struggle to afford solar panels due to high upfront costs. However, reducing energy waste can provide immediate relief to their electricity bills. Energy-efficient appliances and careful usage can significantly lower consumption. For example, Muhammad Adi, a 30-year-old, installed an air conditioner and managed to keep his household electricity bill at around RM100 a month by using the appliance wisely.

Similarly, his uncle, Shamsul Ariffin, spends about 10% of his income on electricity, which is a significant portion of his monthly earnings.

Government rebates, like NUR@Petra, offer RM200 discounts on energy-efficient products, but many households are unaware of these schemes. To access them, consumers must present their identification and electricity bill at participating stores or online platforms. The demand for these rebates can be high, with monthly allocations sometimes distributed within days. However, the availability of such assistance may not be widely known, and fraudulent advertisements can make it challenging for families to trust the information.

In addition to efficient appliances, adopting good "energy hygiene" is crucial. This involves understanding how electricity is consumed in the household, avoiding waste, and making sensible choices before considering renewable energy sources. Simple habits like turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using fans before air conditioners, keeping doors and windows closed while cooling a room, and maintaining appliances for efficient operation can significantly contribute to reducing electricity bills.

For households that can afford solar panels, renewable energy may eventually offer additional savings. However, for families like Adi's, where financial constraints limit the ability to invest in solar panels, focusing on reducing energy waste and improving energy efficiency in their homes should be the starting point.