By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 14: With growing demand for a stable and reliable electricity supply, Sarawak Energy has commissioned Malaysia’s first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sejingkat Power Plant—a RM128 million facility with a 60-megawatt (MW) capacity and 82-megawatt-hour (MWh) storage, energised in December 2024.
The 22-container “powerbank” will enhance grid stability by providing critical services such as primary spinning reserve (emergency backup), voltage and frequency regulation, and peak demand management.
During a working visit to the facility today, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg highlighted the significance of such initiatives in advancing Sarawak’s transition to renewable energy.
He noted that the BESS plays a crucial role in the gradual phasing out of Sejingkat’s 150MW coal-fired power plant, commissioned in 1998 as Borneo’s first and Malaysia’s second coal plant.
“Following a review, Sejingkat’s strategy is to integrate biomass and battery storage, forming a hybrid system for green energy. This is being trialled in Sejingkat, as battery storage supports electricity distribution to the Sarawak Grid,” he told a press conference.
He emphasised that the battery storage system enhances grid reliability, particularly during periods of low voltage, as it can be charged and discharged as needed.
“This will ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for consumers, including industries,” he said, adding that the initiative underscores Sarawak Energy’s commitment to environmental sustainability and carbon reduction.
The strategic investment also enables better integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar power, aligning with Sarawak’s goal of achieving high-income status by 2030 under the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Abang Johari further proposed expanding battery storage solutions to other sites, including hydro dams such as Batang Ai, where currently solar and hydropower formed a hybrid generation system.
He also suggested deploying mobile battery storage units to electrify rural areas.
“With projects like the BESS, we are laying a stronger foundation for Sarawak’s future energy needs. As we transition to a greener, more sustainable economy, it is crucial that all Sarawakians—urban and rural—have access to reliable power to support their daily lives and economic activities.
“If this proves successful, we can implement it elsewhere, as the container storage is mobile and chargeable. Our discussions indicate strong potential for rural electrification,” he added.
The Premier also encouraged Sarawak Energy to explore producing its own battery storage systems to strengthen the region’s electricity supply.
“While this is just a vision, I believe it can materialise. Sarawak has already demonstrated a proven approach through this facility,” he added.
The commissioning of the BESS marks a major step in ensuring energy supply reliability. As demand rises, Sarawak Energy continues to lead in energy storage innovation, reinforcing sustainability and resilience across the power infrastructure.
In a media release, Sarawak Energy Group CEO Datuk Sharbini Suhaili stressed that initiatives like the BESS not only enhance grid reliability but also empower industries, businesses, and communities across the state.
“More importantly, our mission is to illuminate Sarawak, fostering economic resilience and ensuring equitable access to energy, regardless of geographical location,” he said.
As Sarawak’s primary utility, Sarawak Energy remains committed to driving economic growth while upholding environmental sustainability, ensuring that the state’s energy strategies are future-ready.
Other officials attending the working visit included Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohammad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, and Sarawak Energy chairman Dato Ibrahim Baki. — DayakDaily
