KAPIT: The Sarawak government will replace ageing batteries used in rural solar electrification systems here as part of efforts to improve electricity reliability in remote communities.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he had instructed Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi and Sarawak Energy to replace batteries supplied under existing solar power systems in the division.
“I have asked Sarawak Energy and Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi to replace all the batteries that have been provided in Kapit because they are no longer durable,” he said during the Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) programme here Saturday (June 27).
He said the existing batteries were only capable of storing electricity for a limited period and had become increasingly inconsistent in supplying power.
“The batteries can only supply electricity for about three hours. They are not consistent,” he said.
Abang Johari said advances in battery technology could provide a long-term solution to rural electrification challenges, noting that researchers in China are developing battery systems capable of storing electricity for up to 12 hours.
“If this technology becomes available, we will have longer-lasting batteries. Today, there is already what is known as the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS),” he said.
Earlier, Works Minister and Kapit MP Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said many rural communities in the division that were previously supplied with solar energy systems were facing challenges due to ageing equipment.
He said some longhouses had been forced to revert to using diesel generators after years of relying on solar systems.
Nanta expressed appreciation to the Premier for recognising the need to replace ageing solar infrastructure in rural areas, saying the move would help improve the quality of life of communities in the interior.
The initiative is part of the Sarawak government’s broader efforts to strengthen rural connectivity and improve access to reliable and sustainable energy throughout the state.
