SARAWAK is setting new benchmarks for sustainable energy in Malaysia with transformative projects that position the state as a leader in renewable energy development.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted these initiatives during his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting today (Nov 20), emphasising the state’s commitment to energy innovation and sustainability.
One of the standout projects he mentioned is the 50MW Batang Ai Floating Solar Farm, which, upon completion by the end of 2024, will be Malaysia’s largest floating solar facility.
The project will integrate with the existing 108MW Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant.
Additional floating solar projects are underway at Murum, Bakun, and Bengoh Dams, complemented by ground-mounted solar systems in Baram, Mukah and Kuching.
Abang Johari who is Minister of Finance and New Economy said, to address the intermittency challenges of solar energy, Sarawak is advancing in smart grid technology and energy storage systems.
“A proposed high-voltage green grid, utilising the Right-of-Way of the Sabah-Sarawak Gas Pipeline, will connect renewable energy sources to key demand centres, ensuring efficient energy distribution,” he said.
He also revealed that feasibility studies for Pumped Storage Hydro Systems are in progress to support grid stability.
These systems will store excess energy for use during high-demand periods, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Sarawak is also tapping into the potential of biomass energy generation, inspired by the Drax Power Station in the UK, which transitioned from coal to biomass.
“After seeing this transformation firsthand, I encouraged our local companies to explore the biomass energy industry,” he said.
Sarawak, he added, is home to the world’s first large-scale Napier grass biomass pellet manufacturer and exporter, which supplies pellets to Drax.
The rapidly growing Napier grass not only fuels renewable energy but also offers applications in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), fertilisers, and animal feed, promoting a circular economy while enhancing energy and food security.
Looking beyond 2030, he said, Sarawak is exploring innovative renewable energy solutions such as Ocean Energy Systems, which harness tidal, wave and ocean thermal energy.
The state is also leveraging advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM), and Digital Twin, to optimise energy planning and infrastructure development.
“While Sarawak is progressing well with the development of our renewable energy, the oil and gas sector is still a major contributor to our economy, which we must continue to harness for socio-economic development and energy security,” he said.
