By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 26: Sarawak is advancing its renewable energy portfolio by exploring Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) technology in Miri waters, which has the potential to generate 10 gigawatts (GW) of power.
This technology harnesses the temperature difference between warm surface seawater and colder deep seawater using a specialised engine, offering a sustainable energy solution with no harmful environmental impact.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has challenged the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to conduct a feasibility study on adopting OTEC.
“I believe this can be achieved, as the technology already exists. Sarawak has an advantage given our continental shelf, where the sea is not overly deep.
“The temperature variance at sea level between warm surface water and cooler deep water enables energy generation from the ocean,” he remarked during the Sarawak Civil Service Innovation Convention Awards (SCSICA) 2024 ceremony held at a hotel here last night (Oct 25) which was broadcast live through Ukas Channel.
In a recent engagement with Malaysia’s Deputy Economy Minister Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib in Parliament, WIPPD Limited managing director Raj Mehndir highlighted that Miri’s waters are particularly suitable for OTEC due to favourable depth, contrasting with Peninsular Malaysia, where the sea depth does not meet the requirements for OTEC implementation.
Mehndir explained that with proper development, OTEC could join hydro, solar, hydrogen, and algae as another renewable energy source within one to two years.
He noted OTEC’s advantage over solar power, as it can produce uninterrupted energy 24 hours a day, despite weather conditions.
Abang Johari expressed confidence that diversifying Sarawak’s renewable energy sources would attract substantial investments, boost the regional economy, create skilled jobs, and raise income levels.
“This will further elevate our high-income private sector, benefiting our workforce with better salaries.
“This is why the Sarawak government supports free tertiary education—to prepare our children with the skills needed as Sarawak transitions to a high-tech, green economy. This is our direction,” he stressed.
He also highlighted that Sarawak is currently producing 130 kilogrammes of hydrogen daily, following the government’s bold step that has set it apart from other regions that have yet to reach this capability.
Sharing this achievement at the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) Summit, Abang Johari noted Sarawak’s growing global reputation in renewable energy.
“Even CNBC approached me for an interview to discuss Sarawak’s green economy policies,” he added.
Abang Johari emphasised that Sarawak’s renewable energy initiatives align with environmental sustainability goals, balancing ecological benefits with economic growth to improve the quality of life for Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
