How TNB is powering Malaysia’s EV future

Tenaga Nasional Berhad has introduced EV charging stations at numerous strategic locations throughout Malaysia, with more to arrive in the near future. (PlugShare pic)

PETALING JAYA: Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly commonplace in Malaysia, and while headlines often focus on sleek cars and new models, what truly powers this shift is infrastructure.

Behind the scenes, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has been playing a central role in building a smart, reliable EV ecosystem that supports everyday drivers and long-term national goals.

As the country moves towards a low-carbon future under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint, TNB has been laying the foundation for widespread EV adoption.

These efforts include upgrading the power grid to deploying high-speed charging stations along key travel corridors.

Tangible upgrades along Malaysia’s roads

Addressing one of the main barriers to EV adoption — range anxiety — has been a primary focus. Through its own network and collaborations with key players, TNB is quickly expanding public charging availability.

A flagship effort is the growing network of TNB Electron charging stations. These high-speed chargers are strategically located along the North-South Expressway as well as other commercial locations throughout Peninsular Malaysia.

A TNB Electron charging station at AEON Mall Bukit Mertajam. (TNB pic)

TNB Electron chargers boast speeds of up to 200kW, charging most EVs to 80% in under 30 minutes. This significant power output ensures that long-distance travel is more convenient than ever.

EV owners like YP Lim have found the changes to be noticeable. He said: “Malaysia’s EV charging infrastructure looks like it’s improving. There are many charging stations available, especially along the North-South Highway where it is probably needed the most.”

Building a futureproof grid

To support this new demand, TNB has been upgrading its grid infrastructure to handle higher loads and more dynamic usage patterns.

Whether drivers charge at home overnight or at public stations during peak hours, the backbone of the EV experience is a reliable, resilient electricity network.

This smarter grid has not only met today’s needs but is also being built for the future. It is being primed to support significant growth in EV ownership, and integrate future innovations like solar and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology — a concept that could one day allow EV batteries to provide power back to the grid to help with stability during peak demand.

Powering businesses mobility

The shift to electric is not just for individual drivers. TNB is also a key enabler for businesses transitioning their commercial fleets. By providing advisory on dedicated charging infrastructure and scalable energy solutions, TNB helps companies reduce their operational costs and meet sustainability targets.

TNB is also working to transform its own vehicle fleet to meet its sustainability targets. (TNB pic)

Leading by example, TNB is electrifying its own fleet of over 4,800 vehicles, demonstrating the viability and economic benefits of large-scale fleet electrification, including projected maintenance cost savings of up to 86% compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

Making long-term investments more worthwhile

Financially, EVs are becoming increasingly attractive to drivers looking for long-term savings.

“I felt like it was a smart move to get an EV since it looks like long-term costs will be cheaper compared to using petrol, especially with changes to subsidies,” said EV owner Leslie In.

TNB’s ongoing efforts to stabilise supply, maintain competitive rates and grow charging access all support this cost-saving potential.

Towards a cleaner, smarter Malaysia

Beyond providing power, TNB’s role is also enabling a larger ecosystem of clean mobility. From engineering high-speed charging corridors with partners to ensuring grid readiness for residential areas and commercial fleets, the company’s work is designed to make EV ownership practical, affordable and accessible.