By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 25: Sarawak Energy is finalising a feasibility study to expand battery energy storage while exploring alternative solutions such as pumped hydro storage to further strengthen the State’s renewable power base.
As Sarawak advances its renewable energy ambitions, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that expanding energy storage is crucial to accommodating the growing share of variable energy sources like solar.
This initiative follows Sarawak Energy’s recent commissioning of Malaysia’s first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sejingkat Power Plant in Kuching.
“The BESS, energised in December 2024, provides 60MW of backup power, regulates voltage and frequency, manages peak demand, integrates renewable energy sources like solar, and enhances grid reliability,” he shared in his keynote address at EIC Connect Energy Borneo 2025 at Hikmah Exchange Convention Centre today.
With Southeast Asia’s energy demand projected to surge by over 60 per cent by 2040 due to rapid industrialisation and urbanisation, he noted that the challenge is not just to meet this demand but to do so responsibly and sustainably.
However, with abundant natural resources, a strategic location, and a commitment to clean energy, Abang Johari pointed out that Sarawak is well-positioned to establish Borneo as a major energy exporter—whether through green electron transmission, clean hydrogen, liquefied natural gas (LNG), or carbon capture technologies.
He further mentioned that Sarawak plays a key role in Malaysia’s position as a leading liquified natural gas (LNG) exporter, with its vast offshore natural gas reserves accounting for over 60 per cent of the nation’s total. These reserves not only fuel domestic energy needs but also bolster Malaysia’s LNG export industry.
“Through our Sarawak Gas Roadmap, we aim to utilise natural gas as a transition fuel to drive economic transformation for Sarawak through the development of four strategic gas hubs in Miri, Samalaju, Bintulu and Kuching,” he said.
Sarawak plans to increase domestic gas usage from the current 6 per cent to 30 per cent by 2030, ensuring a long-term supply of affordable and cleaner energy for its people.
In a significant milestone last month, Sarawak successfully exported 20,000 metric tonnes of methanol to China.
“This achievement underscores our commitment to maximising the value of our natural resources, particularly natural gas. The Sarawak Petchem project not only strengthens our position in the global methanol market but also aligns with the Sarawak Gas Roadmap,” Abang Johari added.
Deputy Minister (Energy) in the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei Darussalam Dato Seri Paduka Awang Mohamad Azmi Mohd Hanifah, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environment Sustainability Sarawak Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, and Energy Industries Council United Kingdom chief executive Stuart Broadley were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
