Comparative Assessment of Solar PV Systems Under Different Schemes for Sustainable Government Buildings in Malaysia

Abstract

Renewable energy, particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, plays an essential role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy sustainability. This study presents a comparative assessment of grid-connected photovoltaic (GCPV) systems for a government building in Malaysia under three schemes, namely Net Energy Metering (NEM), Self Consumption (SELCO), and SELCO with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). PVsyst was used to develop and simulate the systems based on local solar irradiation data and actual building load demand in Arau, Perlis. Technical and economic performance were evaluated by solar fraction, grid dependency, an initial capital, and payback period. According to the outcomes, NEM offered the best financial performance with a payback period of 7.73 years, while SELCO with BESS obtained the largest solar fraction of 40.5% and the lowest grid dependency of 59.5%. Moreover, SELCO recorded the lowest initial capital cost at RM 350,073.73. The results indicate that while SELCO with BESS provides greater energy independence and long-term sustainability, NEM is better suited for maximum financial return. The findings of this study help prosumers select the most suitable solar PV scheme while supporting policymakers in developing effective solar energy policies and compensation schemes.