@Green September/October 2023 | Page 11

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023 | @ green

COVER STORY

11 projects come from various ministries and businesses , all of whom are dedicated to championing these 10 flagship initiatives .
It is projected that these flagship projects will attract a combined investment exceeding RM25 billion . This investment is anticipated to result in the creation of approximately 23,000 job opportunities . Moreover , these projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 10,000 Gg CO2 equivalent annually .
UNVEILING THE NETR
As part of the NETR , Malaysia has set the following target to achieve by 2030 :
• Thirty-one per cent renewable energy share in the national installed capacity mix by 2025 : Malaysia aims to reach a 31 per cent renewable energy share in the national installed capacity mix by 2025 .
• Twenty per cent renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2025 : Malaysia has set a target of achieving 20 per cent renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2025 .
• Forty per cent renewable energy in the power mix by 2035 : Malaysia has increased its renewable target to 40 per cent by 2035 , from the 20 per cent by 2025 target set in 2019 / 20 .
• Reduce economy-wide carbon intensity by 45 per cent in 2030 : Malaysia aims to reduce its economy-wide carbon intensity ( against GDP ) by 45 per cent in 2030 compared to the 2005 level . Diving deep into the intricacies of this transformative approach reveals an inspiring narrative of optimism , determination , and adaptability , propelling us toward a future where sustainable energy transcends mere ambition and becomes a tangible reality . In the following sections , we will explore the strategies outlined in Phase 1 of The National Energy Transition Roadmap , shedding light on the journey towards a cleaner and brighter future .
This strategic roadmap acknowledges the current energy landscape and devises strategies to surmount forthcoming challenges . At the core of these challenges lies the renowned Energy Trilemma , a complex issue comprising security , equity , and sustainability within the energy sector .
Central to any national energy policy is the assurance of energy security , encompassing the ability to reliably meet current and future energy demands while maintaining resilience against unforeseen disruptions . As global energy dynamics evolve , countries must fortify their response mechanisms , a goal recognised by Malaysia through its NETR .
Equity is another pivotal dimension of the Energy Trilemma , emphasising universal access to dependable , affordable , and sufficient energy resources for all , regardless of domestic or commercial use . Acknowledging disparities in energy access among different segments of society , The NETR underscores the importance of rectifying these imbalances , fostering social well-being , economic growth , and inclusivity through equitable energy distribution .
Yet , the most critical facet of the Energy Trilemma is sustainability . The shift towards sustainable energy systems becomes paramount as nations confront the urgent need to mitigate environmental damage and address climate change consequences . The National Energy Transition Roadmap meticulously considers the intricate link between energy consumption and its ecological impacts . By formulating strategies that facilitate the integration of cleaner and renewable energy sources , Malaysia can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and pave the way for an ecologically harmonious future .
FLAGSHIP CATALYST PROJECTS : BRIDGING THE ENERGY TRILEMMA
To effectively address the Energy Trilemma , we will explore the flagship catalyst projects identified in the NETR that aim to bridge the energy trilemma and drive Malaysia ’ s energy transition . 1 . Renewable Energy Development One of the main pillars of the NETR is the development of renewable energy sources . Malaysia has set a target to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 40 % by 2035 . To achieve this , several flagship catalyst projects have been identified , including :
• Solar Energy : Malaysia has abundant solar resources , and the government plans to promote the development of large-scale solar power plants and rooftop solar installations . This will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and create job opportunities in the renewable energy sector . An exciting endeavour on the horizon is the combined RE Zone