Despite the pandemic, the Net Energy Metering (NEM3.0) NOVA scheme, an initiative to increase solar adoption for the commercial and industrial sectors, has already seen a 100% uptake just three months after its launch in April 2021.
“Many have made use of the NEM NOVA, whose swift uptake demonstrates popularity among local businesses. I hope the Government considers extending the quota upwards to a range of 1000MW- 3000MW to encourage new interest and meet present demand.
“We foresee rapid job creation within the emerging clean energy sector as more industries recognise the rate of return with solar,“ said Ko Chuan Zhen, Group CEO, Plus Xnergy Holding Sdn Bhd, the nation’s leading total clean energy solutions company.
One such business is food manufacturer Kawan Food who took the leap of faith to invest in a solar project early in the pandemic in 2020, which was recently completed in 2021.
The renowned Asian food specialist invested RM7.28 million in a solar photovoltaic (PV) installation at their headquarters in Pulau Indah Selangor Halal Hub. The sum invested also included an Energy Performance Management System (EPMS) developed by Plus Xnergy.
“We have registered strong earnings and experienced a surge of online orders for frozen food both from local and global markets during this pandemic.
“One of our key moves was to invest in a solar solution, which was recently completed in Q1 2021, with projected savings worth RM1 million a year. Our high energy consumption would benefit greatly from reductions in operating cost with solar in the long run,” said Andy Yeap, Senior Factory Manager, Kawan Food Manufacturing Sdn Bhd.
Kawan Food’s investment includes an energy performance management system (EPMS) called SOURCE by Plus Xnergy, which uses the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT). It manages a building’s energy demand, ultimately translated into better business decisions to optimise energy savings.
“It is vital to be aware of spending, especially during the pandemic. Through SOURCE, we can effectively monitor our energy usage through this digital platform.
“Furthermore, this investment reduces carbon emissions, in line with Global Warming Prevention and contributes positively toward corporate social responsibility and sustainability,” Mr. Yeap continued.
“As we battle high Covid-19 infections, and as businesses struggle to stay profitable, a solar investment may not be an immediate decision, though Kawan Food’s adoption is in the interest of long-term benefits,” Ko concluded.
