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Solar push and regional cooperation
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• Local News
@ green | September-October . 2024
Terengganu-Shizen solar collaboration
SHIZEN International Inc ., a group company of the Shizen Energy Group , signed a memorandum of understanding ( MoU ) with Terengganu Incorporated Sdn Bhd ( Terengganu Inc .).
The investment holding company , on behalf of the Terengganu government , will explore the potential development of groundmounted solar power projects in Terengganu . The signing took place on Aug 6 , 2024 , at Wisma Darul Iman .
The MoU was signed by President & Group Chief Executive Officer of Terengganu Inc . Burhanuddin Hilmi Mohamed and Chief Operating Officer of Shizen Ryo Koga .
Also present to witness the signing were the Terengganu State Secretary , Tengku Seri Bijaya , and the Chairman of the State Digital Economy , New Income , Trade , Industrial and Green Technology Committee , Mohd Nurkhuzaini Ab Rahman , and Hiroki Koga , Representative Director of Shizen .
Burhanuddin stated : “ Terengganu Inc . is optimistic that this collaboration will fulfil the aspiration to explore the potential of new ground-mounted solar , thereby enhancing State revenue through the green economy .
“ This partnership is expected to create strategic opportunities for Terengganu Inc . and the State government to collaborate with an international corporation in advancing green technology initiatives in Terengganu .”
Koga said the partnership with Terengganu Inc . underscored Shizen ’ s commitment to boost renewable energy expansion in Malaysia .
“ We aim to enhance local socio-economic development and contribute to Terengganu Inc .’ s ESG target of achieving a 35 per cent renewable energy capacity mix by 2025 ,” said Koga .
“ This initiative not only promises positive environmental impacts and reduced carbon emissions but also promotes clean energy use while boosting our support towards the local economy and surrounding communities . Our efforts are aligned with our commitment to taking action for the blue planet .”
Solar push and regional cooperation
MALAYSIA is set to strengthen its role in the renewable energy sector , with significant progress in solar energy and a commitment to regional cooperation .
Discussions are underway for Malaysia to join the International Solar Alliance ( ISA ), a global initiative that promotes solar energy solutions . ISA ’ s Chief of Operations , Joshua Wycliffe , indicated that Malaysia is keen to become a member , with close collaboration between the Indian Ministry of External Affairs ( MEA ) and Malaysia ’ s Foreign Ministry .
Established during COP21 in 2015 , the ISA is a partnership between India and France aimed at tackling climate change through solar energy . With around 100 countries as signatories , Malaysia ’ s entry would align with its growing emphasis on solar energy development .
The National Energy Transition Roadmap ( NETR ) targets increasing solar energy from four per cent to 58 per cent by 2050 and renewable energy capacity to 70 per cent by the same year .
Deputy Prime Minister Dato ’ Sri Fadillah Yusof reiterated Malaysia ’ s dedication to these goals at the 2024 Indonesia International Sustainability Forum ( ISF ).
He emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in addressing climate change and highlighted initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid and Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline , which drive energy integration and resilience .
Fadillah also stressed that Malaysia ’ s renewable energy strategy focuses on solar , hydropower , and biomass technologies , supported by programmes like the Large Scale Solar Programme ( LSS ) and Corporate Green Power Program ( CGPP ). As ASEAN Chairman in 2025 , Malaysia will prioritise fair and inclusive energy transitions across the region .
Solar and grid flexibility
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A new report by global energy thinktank Ember stressed the importance of solar power and grid flexibility in securing Malaysia ’ s future electricity affordability and security .
The report , “ Solar and Grid Flexibility Critical for Malaysia ’ s Future Electricity Affordability and Security ”, explains how Malaysia can harness its significant solar resources to create a more sustainable and resilient energy system .
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Solar generation in Peninsular Malaysia was 53 per cent cheaper than fossil fuels in 2023 , highlighting its potential to meet the country ’ s growing energy needs .
The report points out that , in addition to this cost advantage , investing in grid flexibility is essential to integrate solar power into the national grid seamlessly .
This includes measures such as battery storage , demand-side response ,
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and advanced grid management .
Malaysia ’ s National Energy Transition Roadmap ( NETR ) aims to achieve 70 per cent renewable energy capacity by 2050 , with solar power playing a pivotal role .
However , successful integration will depend on the country ’ s commitment to grid flexibility and infrastructure upgrades .
Solar power also offers significant economic benefits . Reducing dependence
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on imported fossil fuels can lower electricity costs , and the solar industry ’ s growth is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic activity .
To achieve these goals , the report recommends policies that accelerate solar deployment , incentivise grid flexibility , and upgrade infrastructure , securing a sustainable a nd affordable energy future for Malaysia . – @ green
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