KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak is strengthening its position as a regional clean energy exporter through expanded hydropower capacity, cross-border electricity supply and grid modernisation efforts.
Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, said the state continues to position itself as a regional leader in energy transition, leveraging its hydropower capacity to drive green development.
He said hydropower currently accounts for about 70 per cent of Sarawak’s generation capacity, with the upcoming Baleh Hydroelectric Project expected to add a further 1,285 megawatts (MW).
“In addition, the potential for floating solar at hydropower stations to support decarbonisation and clean energy is substantial,” he said at the R.A.C.E to Zero Summit and Exhibition 2026 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
Dr Hazland said Sarawak is investing in transmission infrastructure and grid modernisation, while supporting energy-intensive industries such as aluminium, silicon and ferroalloys under the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) with clean energy supply.
He said the state aims to generate 15 gigawatts (GW) of electricity by 2035, largely from renewable sources.
He also outlined Sarawak’s ambition to become a key energy exporter within the region, citing existing and planned interconnections.
He said Sarawak is already supplying electricity to West Kalimantan and has commenced supplying 50MW to Sabah.
“Within the ASEAN Power Grid vision, Sarawak is uniquely positioned to play a key role as a clean energy exporter,” he said.
He added that the ministry adopts an integrated approach, focusing not only on energy generation but also on biodiversity conservation, carbon management, sustainable land use, water security and the inclusion of local and indigenous communities.
The two-day summit, organised by the Malaysian Photovoltaic & Sustainable Energy Industry Association (MPSEA) and The C0_Lab with support from the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), brought together over 3,000 participants and more than 80 speakers from over 10 countries.
During the event, Dr Hazland also officiated the flag-off for the R.A.C.E to Zero Series Kuching scheduled on Sept 8, which is expected to position Sarawak as a regional clean energy growth hub while attracting investment and strengthening collaboration among industry stakeholders.
A networking roundtable session was also held, chaired by Dr Hazland, involving industry players, financial institutions, investors, utilities and federal agencies.
