SHAH ALAM, April 21 — The Selangor government has been asked to execute energy efficiency contracts at state-owned buildings using solar power with the Zero CapEx model to generate long-term savings.
Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran said it is time for government buildings, including schools, to transition to solar power using the aggregation method, aimed at lowering electricity bills and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
“If we want to adapt with energy efficiency, it must start with the state administration itself. I am of the view that this effort must be undertaken and will be made an example by others.
“Solar (panel) installations could bring optimal savings in line with the government’s aim to save costs amid the uncertain geopolitical situation,” he said when debating the motion of thanks for the Royal address by Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.
The Zero CapEx model allows solar systems to be installed without initial costs or capital investments by users. Instead, a third-party investor will finance, install and maintain the system, while users need only pay for energy consumed at lower rates than Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s (TNB).
Rajiv also suggested the Selangor government expand promotions for the Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) van service, which now operates in 93 zones statewide, saying the service could lead a shift towards higher public transport use.
“I suggest the state focus on the DRT service because this is a good opportunity to persuade people to try DRT vans,” he added.
Rajiv meanwhile also highlighted the need for basic infrastructure such as treated retention ponds in Petaling Jaya, adding that nearly 80 per cent of older areas in his state constituency lack such facilities even though Selangor houses 1,657 service retention ponds.
“I also urge the immediate resolution of frequent floods in Section 18 and on Jalan Othman, in line with the Selangor Sultan’s rebuke about flood management failures,” he said.
Yesterday, Sultan Sharafuddin expressed disappointment over recurrent flooding in the state despite His Royal Highness’ repeated reminders.
In response, state executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim said the Selangor government would prioritise flood mitigation efforts.
