To encourage ownership of “green” homes among Malaysian consumers, OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad (OCBC Bank) is now offering special financing rates and speedier approvals through its Green Home Financing scheme.
The special rates, lower than the Bank’s standard home loans, and speedier fast lane approvals within 48 hours are for those who opt to purchase a residential property that is either certified as a “green” building or is (or will be) installed with solar panels. The green buildings may be completed or under construction.
A “green” building is one that has been certified to be such by accreditation bodies Green Building Index (GBI), GreenRE, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), or BCA Green Mark. Those applying for the financing scheme based on solar panel installation need only submit a copy of their latest TNB bill indicating the installation has taken place as part of the application process.
OCBC Bank had last year introduced its residential solar panel financing plan for individuals as part of its thrust to make sustainable practices even more accessible to homeowners in the country.
According to OCBC Bank Managing Director & Head of Consumer Financial Services Ms Anne Leh Geok Meng the introduction of Green Home Financing is part of the Bank’s overall plan to build awareness about sustainability among consumers whilst providing them with the avenues to exercise their commitment to ESG-related practices.
