KUCHING, Dec 11: Seven Korean companies and Sarawak Energy are set to embark on a microgrid project at Kampung Semadang in Padawan.
Sarawak Energy and a consortium of Korean companies selected by Korean Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning (KETEP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research into microgrid technology in the state and promote advanced technologies in Malaysia.
The MOU was inked at the Sustainability and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF) 2019.
A microgrid is a local energy grid which can operate independently and even disconnect from the main grid if a problem is detected in the upstream overhead line.
Among the advantages of a microgrid are reductions in congestion during peak load as well as promoting power generation from renewable energy sources, resulting in further decarbonising the power system in Sarawak.
The microgrid system at Kampung Semadang will encompass a solar, small hydro, energy storage system, smart meter and communication system.
The collaboration includes joint research and development initiatives such as microgrid platform development, solar and hydro performance study, energy storage system application, energy efficiency, safety and regulation improvement, and knowledge transfer association with microgrid technology. The intellectual property developed will be shared between both parties.
Sarawak Energy group chief executive officer Datu Sharbini Suhaili said they were constantly looking into ways to improve its power system in line with the target to be best operator.
“We believe in leveraging on innovative solutions and technology to strengthen our system which will enhance reliability of supply. This diversifies the way we implement our projects in order to maximise output.
“Investing in research and development is essential to improve our technical knowledge and processes which is important if we are to add value to our business and for Sarawak Energy to grow beyond,” he said.
Signing for Sarawak Energy were Sharbini and group chief operating officer Lu Yew Hung, whereas signing for the Korean Consortium were Nuri Telecom chief marketing officer Han Soo Kim and KH Shinhwa chief executive officer Jong Ki Min.
Present to witness the signing were representatives from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea Hyung Jin Lim and Jin Ae Ahn and Seung Kon Lee from the Korean Chamber of Commerce Malaysia. —DayakDaily
