Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
THE National Energy Awards (NEA) 2024 upholds its tradition of honouring industry leaders and organisations for their commitment to adopting energy efficiency, renewable energies, technologies and practices.
This year, 25 recipients were honoured for their contributions to optimising energy manage-ment, improving energy efficiency and advancing renewable energy.
Spearheaded by Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (Petra), the NEA supported Malaysia’s goal of reducing reliance on carbon-based fuels and promoting instead sustainable energy practices across all sectors, advancing the nation towards net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
This year’s awards received 134 submissions from various sectors, including healthcare, government agencies and the private sector.
These efforts collectively save 315.37 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of energy usage annually, which is equivalent to about RM45mil in reduced energy bills per annum at current tariffs, and generated over 283.71GWh annually from renewable energy sources.
The healthcare sector, particularly government hospitals, stood out with more than 65 submissions, showcasing strong leadership in energy efficiency and setting an example for others.
This participation underscored the sector’s commitment to sustainability and the country’s energy-saving goals.
“I am inspired by the progress made by various sectors in advancing our energy transition agenda,” said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister.
“The commitment to sustainable energy development and practices will drive Malaysia’s future growth.
“Congratulations to the National Energy Awards 2024 winners. Your contributions to energy sustainability highlight Malaysia’s leadership in energy management, renewable energy and energy efficiency.”
These energy savings are crucial in advancing the nation’s environmental goals, contributing to an annual reduction of 238,504.41 tonnes of carbon emissions, equivalent to planting 5,962,610 trees.
This demonstrates Malaysia’s dedication to a just and sustainable energy transition, in line with the country’s pathway to achieving net-zero by 2050.
Leading the way among the winning submissions was Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), which achieved the highest score, placing them in first place in Category 1 for Energy Management in Large Buildings.
The university exceeded its annual energy reduction target of 3% by achieving reductions of 17.8%, 18.5% and 19.3% for the years 2021 to 2023.
The NEA also recognised outstanding achievements in Category 2 for Green Residential, where the Hydroponic House set the standard with its central courtyard, natural lighting and a 6kW solar PV system that meets over 34% of its electricity needs.
Additionally, under the Tropical Building sub-category, the Petronas Leadership Centre in Bangi, Selangor, was celebrated for its extensive greenery and eco-friendly design, including a man-made lake and solar energy integration that seamlessly blend with the landscape.
Fadillah said these achievements demonstrated Malaysia’s commitment to sustainability and net-zero emissions.
As energy demand grows, integrating renewable sources and improved grid management will be crucial in driving the transition to a sustainable energy future, he added.
The 2025 edition of the NEA will open for submissions in October, providing another opportunity for Malaysian organisations to showcase their contributions to the nation’s energy goals.
For more details, go to www.nationalenergyawards.com.my.
