Masdar And Sarawak Energy Join Forces To Explore Floating Solar Power Plant In Malaysia

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, known as Masdar, has entered into a Joint Study Agreement with Sarawak Energy and Gentari. This collaboration aims to explore the feasibility of establishing a floating solar power plant at the Murum Hydroelectric Plant reservoir in Sarawak, Malaysia. This large-scale project signifies a crucial step towards increasing renewable energy capacity in Sarawak and aligns with Malaysia's clean energy goals.

The document exchange took place at Masdar’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Key figures present included Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar; Datuk Sharbini Suhaili, CEO of Sarawak Energy Group; and Sushil Purohit, CEO of Gentari. The ceremony was attended by Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, and Dato' Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Floating solar projects present numerous benefits for nations like Malaysia. With limited land available due to agricultural, residential, and industrial needs, these projects offer an efficient alternative. Installing solar panels on water bodies reduces land usage and water evaporation while potentially enhancing hydroelectric operations.

Al Ramahi expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "Our partnership with Sarawak Energy and Gentari represents a powerful convergence of expertise and ambition in the pursuit of a sustainable energy future. By harnessing our collective strengths in renewable energy technologies, particularly in large-scale solar and floating PV innovations, we are demonstrating that we can accelerate the energy transition and drive economic growth through bold, collaborative action."

This agreement follows Masdar's significant deal with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority in 2023. The aim is to develop 10 gigawatts of clean energy projects across Malaysia. Masdar is committed to supporting Malaysia’s ambitious renewable energy targets—31% by 2025 and 40% by 2035.

Suhaili highlighted the importance of Sarawak Energy’s diverse generation mix: "Sarawak Energy’s diversified generation mix is crucial to achieving our aim of becoming a renewable energy powerhouse in Southeast Asia. The potential for a floating solar PV project on the reservoir of the Murum Hydroelectric Plant will complement our ongoing investments in renewable innovations, including our Batang Ai floating solar farm, which is expected to offset 52 kilotonnes of CO2 emissions annually once commissioned by the end of this year."

Evaluating Feasibility for Future Projects

The feasibility study will evaluate technical feasibility, environmental impact, and economic viability for a large-scale floating solar installation on the Murum reservoir. If successful, this project could enhance Sarawak's renewable energy capacity and serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region.

Purohit stated: "Our partnership with Masdar and Sarawak Energy for this ambitious project unites leading global stakeholders in a shared vision to drive progress in clean energy adoption, optimising technological advancements to more effectively integrate renewables into our energy systems. At every level—state, national, and international—Gentari is fully committed to driving long-term value as a trusted clean energy partner in Asia Pacific."

Sarawak's Vision for Clean Energy Leadership

This initiative supports Sarawak's goal to lead clean energy development and export within Southeast Asia. During their UAE visit, led by Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg, the Sarawak delegation engaged in high-level meetings. They participated in discussions on Asia's role in shaping the hydrogen market and visited various facilities including Mubadala Energy Exhibition Stand at ADIPEC.

With inputs from WAM