If you live in Malta, you’re probably familiar with the dreaded ARMS bill — the monthly statement for your electricity and water usage. But what many don’t realise is how much your ARMS bill can be impacted not only by your registered tariff, but also by the simple decision to install ISD Malta’s solar panels at home.
At ISD Malta, we’re here to break it all down — and show you how switching to solar can help you take control of your energy, your costs, and your future.
What Is the ARMS Bill?
ARMS Ltd is the utility billing company responsible for collecting payment for electricity and water in Malta. Your ARMS bill typically includes:
- Electricity usage
- Water usage
- Meter rental charges
- ECO contribution
- Service fees
- For more about the official ARMS billing system, visit the ARMS website.
But here’s the important bit — not everyone is paying the same rates.
Residential vs Domestic Tariff
There are two types of ARMS accounts:
- Residential – intended for people living in their own homes or registered addresses. This account comes with energy allowances based on the number of residents.
- Domestic – usually applies to secondary homes or properties without residents officially registered. It’s a flat rate with no allowances, and it can be up to twice as expensive per unit.
If you’re renting or not listed as a resident, you may unknowingly be on the domestic tariff — and overpaying for every single unit.
How Solar Panels Change the Game
Installing a solar panel system with ISD Malta is one of the most powerful ways to reduce your electricity costs — regardless of your ARMS tariff type.
Lower Electricity Consumption
Once your solar panels are installed, your home begins generating free electricity from the sun. This reduces how much power you draw from the grid, automatically lowering your monthly consumption charges on the ARMS bill.
Get Paid for Excess Energy
With a grid-tied system, any excess energy your panels produce can be sent back to the grid. You’ll then receive a feed-in tariff — essentially getting paid for the energy you export.
Protection from Rising Energy Costs
Energy rates can increase over time — especially if you’re on a domestic tariff. But with solar, your energy production stays stable and predictable.
Combine Solar with ARMS Savings
If your ARMS account is switched to residential and correctly registered, you benefit from both tariff allowances and reduced grid usage from solar. It’s a win-win setup that maximises your savings.
Ready to Save?
At ISD Malta, we specialise in custom solar solutions for homes and businesses across Malta and Gozo. We handle everything — system design, government grant applications, installation, and support.
Installing solar is not just about saving money — it’s about gaining energy independence and contributing to a more sustainable Malta.