SERIAN: A new RM200-million substation with a capacity of 275 kilovolts (kV) is being constructed to provide a long-term solution to frequent electricity supply disruptions in the Serian and Tebedu areas, which have been affected by rising power demand.
Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Martin Ben, said the disruptions were caused by the existing supply system operating at 33kV and 11kV, which had exceeded its current capacity limits.
Martin, who is also the Kedup state assemblyman, said that the new substation project by Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2028 and will enhance the stability and capacity of electricity supply in both areas.
“This situation has arisen due to the increased use of electrical appliances in homes, in line with population growth and local development,” he said.
He said this while speaking at the closing of the Biennial General Meeting of the Association of Community Leaders and Bidayuh Ethnic Chiefs for the Serian Division held here recently.
Martin informed that SEB had taken two immediate measures, namely the upgrading of existing service lines and intensifying the clearing of electricity line corridors.
He also advised village residents to use the official channels such as the SEB Careline to lodge any complaints related to electricity supply.
