Honda Malaysia has completed a RM14 million solar power project at its Melaka plant in Alor Gajah, adding rooftop generation and battery storage to cut grid electricity use and carbon emissions.
The installation comprises about 8,960 solar panels with a combined capacity of more than 5.6 MW. Honda expects the system to produce roughly 7,042 MWh of renewable electricity a year and reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by 4,584 tonnes, equivalent to about 10% of the plant’s total emissions.
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) has also been installed to hold excess solar energy for later use. Honda Malaysia said the system should improve energy management and provide a steadier supply for plant operations. The company describes itself as an early industrial adopter of BESS technology in Malaysia.
The project was funded directly by Honda Malaysia and supported by the Green Investment Tax Allowance. Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh launched the completion ceremony today.
Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Narushi Yazaki said the investment would reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing while supporting the company’s longer-term carbon goals.
The solar programme would be extended to Honda’s parts supply warehouse in Bukit Jelutong, Shah Alam, in 2027. The company said some Honda dealers have also adopted rainwater harvesting and battery-disposal measures.
Honda Malaysia has received a 3.07-star rating under the Climate and Sustainability Industry Readiness Index, or COSIRI, which assesses industrial sustainability practices.
Its wider environmental programme includes expanding the e:HEV hybrid line-up, linking lower-emission vehicles with cleaner manufacturing. Honda also expects the solar installation to reduce its reliance on conventional power during plant operations.
The Melaka installation is Honda Malaysia’s first solar project and forms part of Honda’s global target to achieve carbon neutrality across its products and corporate activities by 2050.
