KOTA SAMARAHAN: Middle Eastern investors have expressed strong interest in Sarawak’s renewable energy sector, particularly in developing floating solar projects at its major hydroelectric dams.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the growing interest reflects global confidence in Sarawak’s leadership in the renewable energy field.
He said several investors have indicated interest to develop large-scale floating solar installations at Bakun, Murum and Batang Ai dams.
“We are leading the integration of hydro and solar. At Batang Ai, the existing 50MW floating solar project will be expanded to 120MW.
“This brings the total capacity to 170MW, and if all hydro reservoirs are utilised, Sarawak could host Malaysia’s largest floating solar facilities.
“Based on Sarawak’s renewable energy generation capacity, the government targets to produce 10GW of renewable energy by 2030 and 15GW by 2035, in line with the state’s aspiration to become a regional green energy powerhouse,” he said.
He said this when delivering his speech during the third session of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas)’ 29th convocation ceremony at DeTAR Putra, Unimas, here today (Nov 4).
Abang Johari asserted that Sarawak continues to enhance its clean energy capacity through the ongoing Baleh Hydroelectric Project, which will produce 1,285MW upon completion.
He noted that Baleh is among four major hydro projects supporting the state’s renewable energy needs and future power export to neighbouring countries.
“Our energy network has gone beyond borders. Sarawak has been exporting electricity to West Kalimantan since 2016, while the link to Sabah will soon supply 100MW as part of the Borneo Grid.
“The Sarawak–Singapore interconnection is expected to begin commercial operations by 2032 — forming the foundation of the ASEAN Power Grid,” he added.
