PETALING JAYA: Singapore-based Trinasolar Energy Development Pte Ltd, a specialist in smart photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions, is looking to leverage the success of Malaysia’s largest hybrid solar project to expand similar initiatives across South-East Asia.
In a statement, the company said it recognises substantial potential in the region.
“In South-East Asia, rapid economic development and increasing energy demands are often coupled with limited land availability. Floating solar presents an attractive solution by generating clean energy without using valuable land.
“Additionally, floating solar installations benefit from higher energy efficiencies achieved as a result of the cooling effect of water.”
Trinasolar said reservoirs with floating solar also benefit as there is less water evaporation.
“One such successful application is Cypark Resources Bhd’s 100 MWac hybrid solar farm in Merchang, a coastal town in Malaysia’s northeastern state of Terengganu.
“This innovative plant has entered commercial operation and is projected to generate enough clean energy to offset 202,024 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.”
In the same statement, Cypark executive chairman Datuk Ami Moris noted that the solar farm is Malaysia’s largest hybrid solar power plant and consists of 35 megawatts (MW) of floating solar panels on the water surface and 65 MW solar panels installed on land.
“This project demonstrates Cypark’s ability to integrate solar power plant development with the natural environment of Terengganu, which is susceptible to flooding.”
Trinasolar South-East Asia head Elva Wang said the complex project’s successful operation is a testament to its design and implementation.
“We foresee significant opportunities in South-East Asia for large-scale hybrid solar projects, integrating both floating and ground-mounted installations.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Cypark and appreciate their trust in Trinasolar for this ambitious project that aligns with Malaysia’s goal of achieving a 70% renewable energy mix by 2050.”
Wang said the project is a clear demonstration of the potential for hybrid solar projects in the region.
“We look forward to driving more such initiatives and contributing to South-East Asia’s renewable energy ambitions.”