Abu Dhabi, UAE, November 6, 2024 - Abu
Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, the UAE’s
clean energy powerhouse, has signed a Joint Study Agreement with
Malaysia's Sarawak Energy and clean energy solutions
provider, Gentari, to assess the feasibility of a floating
solar power plant at the reservoir of Murum Hydroelectric Plant in
the state of Sarawak, Malaysia.
The large-scale
floating solar PV project marks a significant step towards
expanding renewable energy capacity in Sarawak state and
supporting Malaysia's clean energy ambitions. The exchange of
documents was held at Masdar’s head office in Abu Dhabi
between Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar Chief Executive Officer,
Datuk Sharbini Suhaili, Sarawak Energy Group Chief Executive
Officer and Sushil Purohit, Gentari Chief Executive Officer. The
ceremony was witnessed by the Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan
Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg,
Premier of Sarawak.
Floating solar projects offer
several advantages for countries like Malaysia with growing
populations and a scarcity of land that is required for
agriculture, housing and industry. Placing solar plants on water
reduces land use, decreases water evaporation, and offers
potential synergies with hydroelectric operations.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar Chief Executive Officer,
said:
"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 deal follows our landmark
agreement with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority in
2023 for the development of 10 gigawatts of clean energy projects
across the country. Masdar is proud to contribute to
Malaysia’s ambitious renewable energy targets of 31 percent
by 2025 and 40 percent by 2035.”
Sarawak Energy Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Sharbini
Suhaili, commented:
“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.”
Sushil Purohit, Gentari Chief Executive Officer, said:
“As a proudly Malaysian company, Gentari is pleased to be a
key contributor in helping the country achieve its renewable
energy targets and climate goals, alongside supporting clients on
their net zero journey. 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."
The feasibility
study aims to assess the potential for a large-scale floating
solar installation on the Murum reservoir. This evaluation will
encompass technical feasibility, environmental impact, and
economic viability to determine if the project can be successfully
implemented. If deemed viable, this floating solar installation
could not only strengthen Sarawak's renewable energy capacity
but also position it as a pioneering model for floating solar
projects across the region. It also supports Sarawak's
ambition to become a leader in clean energy development and export
in Southeast Asia.