Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg speaking to reporters in Kuching on Tuesday (Oct 29). - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak is advancing more floating solar projects on its major hydroelectric dams.
These projects are on Murum and Bakun dams (Kapit Division) as well as Bengoh dam (Kuching) alongside ground-mounted solar systems with battery support in Baram (northern Sarawak), Mukah (central Sarawak) and Kuching, according to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The 50 megawatt (MW) Batang Ai floating solar farm will be Malaysia’s largest floating solar facility by end of 2024 (when commissioned),integrating seamlessly with the existing 108MW Batang Ai hydroelectric plant,” he said at a state assembly here last week.
Abang Johari said a landmark memorandum of understanding had been signed recently between Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB), Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company – Masdar,and Gentari (global clean energy solutions provider) to conduct a joint feasibility study on a potential floating solar project in Murum reservoir.
The signing ceremony early this month was witnessed by the Sarawak Premier, who was a panel member on “Regional Spotlight – Asia’s role in defining the hydrogen market” at the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2024 hosted by Mubadala Energy.
The feasibility study, according to Gentari chief executive officer Sushil Purohit, aims to assess the potential for a large-scale floating solar installation on the Murum reservoir.
This evaluation will encompass technical feasibility, environmental impact and economic viability to determine if the project can be successful implemented.
If deemed viable, this floating solar installation could not only strengthen Sarawak’s renewable energy capacity but also position it as a pioneering model for floating solar projects across the region.
It also supports Sarawak’s ambition to become a leader in clean energy development and export in South-East Asia, said Sushil in a statement.
Abang Johari said this collaboration demonstrates Sarawak’s commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity through strategic international partnerships.
“When completed, the Murum floating solar project will be the world’s largest hybrid floating solar-hydro installation,” he added.
The 944MW Murum power plant, which was first commissioned in 2014, has a 245 sq km reservoir.
Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi said the Murum floating solar project follows Masdar’s landmark agreement with Malaysian Investment Development Authority in 2023 for the development of 10 gigawatts of clean energy projects across Malaysia.
Abang Johari said to address solar energy’s intermittency challenges, Sarawak is making strides in smart grid technology and energy storage system.
“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.
“Feasibility studies for pumped storage hydro systems further support grid stability, storing excess energy for use during high-demand period and reducing reliance on fossil oil,” he added.
The Premier said the recent technical tour at Masdar City in Abu Dhabi gave him a great look at some of the latest developments in the sustainable city model through the adoption of a carbon free city.
“The advancements of Masdar City will serve as a model for the future development of Kuching, particularly in new areas.
“I am inspired by Masdar’s approach and hope to adopt some of their ideas, like solar power, low-carbon solutions and environmental conservation.
“We are also considering to establish a Sarawak Trade and Toursim office in Abu Dhabi.
This office will be managed and finance by Petroleum Sarawak Bhd and SEB, with the goal of enhancing connections and providing a platform for continuous engagement with United Arab Emirates stakeholders, fostering further collaboration in renewable energy, tourism and trade,” he added.
Abang Johari said biomass energy generation is another promising area which he has encouraged Sarawak companies to explore the opportunities.
“Today, l am proud to say that Sarawak is home to the world’s first large-scale Napier grass biomass pellet manufacturer and exporter.
“What is even more exciting is that we are already selling these pellets to UK’s Drax Power Station (where he toured recently) which was once coal-powered but is now 100% fuelled by biomass.
“Napier grass,which grows rapidly and requires minimal replanting, offers applications beyond energy, including sustainable aviation fuel, fertilisers, and animal feed, promoting a circular economy while enhancing energy and food security,” he said.
On hydrogen, Abang Johari said high energy demand nations, especially in East Asia, are partnering with Sarawak for hydrogen production.
“Significant projects are underway, with a vision to produce 240,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2028. These initiatives could add RM2.5bil to RM3.6bil annually to Sarawak’s gross domestic product and create high-paying jobs,nearly four times the current average wage,” he said.
