Honda Malaysia has officially commemorated the completion of its first major solar power installation initiative at its Melaka Plant in Alor Gajah.
Honda Malaysia is taking steps to cut down their carbon footprint in Malaysia with a new solar power and battery energy storage installation. Officiated by the Chief Minister of Melaka, Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh, the milestone represents a key step toward Honda’s global commitment to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050.
The project represents a self-funded investment of approximately RM14 million, underscoring the company’s belief that sustainable environmental practices and long-term business growth must progress together.
5.6 MW Solar Capacity Mated to Industrial-First Battery Energy Storage
The newly completed renewable energy installation comprises 8,960 solar panels mounted across the rooftops of the Melaka manufacturing facility:
- Total Installed Capacity: Exceeds 5.6 megawatts (MW).
- Annual Renewable Generation: Projected to generate approximately 7,042 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity every year.
- Carbon Reduction Impact: Reduces the plant‘s annual carbon dioxide CO2 emissions by 4,584 tonnes, cutting the facility’s total carbon footprint by roughly 10%.
To optimize energy efficiency, Honda Malaysia has supplemented the solar photovoltaic (PV) array with a high-capacity Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). By storing excess solar energy generated during peak hours for later use, the system guarantees a stable, consistent power supply for manufacturing operations.
This installation positions Honda Malaysia as a pioneer among industrial electricity consumers in Malaysia to implement a localized BESS solution.
COSIRI Certification, Government Incentives, and Future Expansion
In recognition of its strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework, Honda Malaysia successfully achieved the Climate and Sustainability Industry Readiness Index (COSIRI) certification, securing a star rating of 3.07.
The successful deployment of the project was supported by the Malaysian Government’s Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA) scheme, highlighting the role of public-private collaboration in accelerating the nation’s transition toward a low-carbon economy.
“The completion of this solar power project marks an important milestone in Honda Malaysia’s sustainability journey. Beyond reducing our environmental footprint, it reflects our commitment to responsible manufacturing and our aspiration to contribute towards a carbon-neutral future. Building on this commitment, Honda Malaysia will further expand its solar power initiative to the Parts Supply Warehouse in Bukit Jelutong, Shah Alam in 2027, reinforcing our long-term efforts to drive sustainable operations,” said Mr. Narushi Yazaki, Managing Director and CEO of Honda Malaysia.
Beyond its manufacturing infrastructure, Honda Malaysia continues to advance its green commitment through the expansion of its e:HEV hybrid vehicle lineup, alongside dealer-level sustainability initiatives such as rainwater harvesting and responsible battery disposal programs.
