Solar Panel Financing in Sabah 2026
Sabah uses SESB (Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd) instead of TNB, meaning the Solar ATAP scheme does not apply here. Sabah homeowners instead use the NEM (Net Energy Metering) programme under SESB. Financing options including EPF and green loans are still available.
Note: Sabah is served by SESB NEM (Net Energy Metering) (not TNB). Solar ATAP is a TNB programme — Sabah homeowners apply under the equivalent SESB NEM (Net Energy Metering) scheme. Financing options (green loans, EPF) work the same way.
Sabah Solar Financing at a Glance — 2026
Cash vs Green Loan vs EPF in Sabah
Each financing method suits a different financial situation. Here's how they compare for a typical 5 kW system in Sabah (RM 16,000–24,000 (5 kW)).
| Method | Upfront cost | Monthly payment | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | Full RM 18k–25k | None | Fastest payback (5–6 yr) |
| Green Loan | 0–10% deposit | ~RM 250–400/mo | Preserve savings, still cash-flow positive |
| EPF Account 2 | Zero cash | None | No cash, EPF balance > RM 20k |
Estimates based on 5 kW system at RM 20,000 with 7-year green loan tenure. Actual rates depend on your credit profile and bank of choice.
Green Loan Options for Solar in Sabah
All major banks below offer solar green loans accessible from Sabah. Monthly repayments on a RM 20,000 loan at 3.5% p.a. over 7 years work out to about RM 275/month — often less than your current electricity bill.
Green BizFinancing / Personal Financing-i
Green Home Loan / MAE Solar Financing
Green Financing-i
MyHome Solar Loan
Green Personal Financing
Rates current as of 2026. Compare at least 3 banks before committing — rates and approval criteria vary. Islamic financing options (financing-i) are available at Bank Islam, CIMB Islamic, and Maybank Islamic.
How to Use EPF Account 2 for Solar in Sabah
EPF withdrawal for solar works in Sabah as the eligibility is national. Use KWSP Kota Kinabalu branch or online i-Akaun. Note that your installer must still be SEDA-registered.
Get installer quote
Ask your SEDA-registered installer for an EPF-compatible quotation with their SEDA registration number included.
Apply via i-Akaun
Log in to i-Akaun (akaun.kwsp.gov.my) → Account 2 Withdrawal → Housing/Solar. Upload quote and supporting docs.
KWSP review (2–4 weeks)
KWSP verifies the installer's SEDA status and your property ownership. Disbursement goes directly to the installer.
Installation begins
Once KWSP releases payment, installation typically takes 1–3 days. TNB/SEDA connection takes 4–8 weeks after.
Pro tip: Solar typically delivers 15–20% annual returns — well above EPF's ~5–6% dividend. If you have RM 20,000+ in Account 2, withdrawing for solar is often the smarter long-term move.
Calculate Your Solar ROI in Sabah
Enter your TNB bill and get a personalised payback period, savings estimate, and system size recommendation.
Solar Financing Sabah: Frequently Asked Questions
What financing options are available for solar in Sabah?▾
Three main options: (1) Cash — fastest payback, lowest total cost; (2) Green Loan from banks like CIMB, Maybank, Bank Islam — rates from 3.5% p.a., monthly repayments often lower than electricity savings; (3) EPF Account 2 withdrawal — no monthly payments, zero interest.
How much does a solar system cost in Sabah?▾
A typical 5 kW system in Sabah costs RM 16,000–24,000 (5 kW) fully installed — includes Tier-1 panels, inverter, mounting hardware, wiring, and SEDA/TNB application fees. Always get at least 3 quotes.
What is the payback period for solar in Sabah?▾
With From 4.0% p.a. green loan or EPF, most Sabah homeowners see payback in 6–9 years. After payback, all generated electricity is pure savings for 17–20 more years.
Does Solar ATAP apply in Sabah?▾
No. Solar ATAP is only for TNB-connected areas. Sabah uses SESB (Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd). Sabah homeowners use the NEM (Net Energy Metering) scheme under SESB. The economics are similar but rates and processes differ slightly.
Can Sabah homeowners still use EPF for solar?▾
Yes — EPF withdrawal for solar is a national scheme and applies regardless of whether your state uses TNB, SESB, or SEB. Your installer must be SEDA-registered. Apply at KWSP Kota Kinabalu or via i-Akaun online.
Can I use EPF to pay for solar in Sabah?▾
Yes. Any Malaysian homeowner in Sabah with a primary residence can withdraw from EPF Account 2 to cover the full cost of a SEDA-registered solar installation. EPF withdrawal for solar works in Sabah as the eligibility is national. Use KWSP Kota Kinabalu branch or online i-Akaun. Note that your installer must still be SEDA-registered.