Photo shows the second supply line, which will enhance the reliability of electricity supply to Matu.
KUCHING: Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) continues to focus on improving electricity supply reliability for residents in Matu by investing substantially in new installations to reinforce the system.
It acknowledges that the existing 40km-long 33kV supply line linking Matu to the newly-commissioned Daro 33/11kV substation is susceptible to disturbances along the stretch.
In this respect, the works on installing a second line
as backup to reinforce the existing supply system should reach completion by the end of this year.
“Sarawak Energy regrets any inconvenience experienced by the residents in Matu due to the supply interruptions.
“We are making every effort to get the second line installed as soon as possible. With the installation of the second line, supply is expected to be more reliable.
“Although the second supply lines will run parallel to the existing lines — part of it will be underground cables — and will reduce the risk of disturbance along the relevant stretch,” explained Sarawak Energy vice-president (distribution) Yusri Safri.
Sarawak Energy is investing RM333.2 million to reinforce the overall distribution system and enhance supply reliability for Daro and Matu, with the works being implemented in phases including the newly-constructed Daro substation, energised in May this year, and the 132kV transmission lines from the Sungai Maaw substation and the Petian substation, currently under construction.
Yusri also outlined efforts to reduce supply interruption risks and for quick restoration of supply for Matu.
“Our technical team is monitoring the condition of existing lines closely.
“They are on alert for immediate deployment upon notification of supply interruptions so they can work on restoring supply efficiently and safely in the shortest possible time.”
The team uses infrared scanners for quick detection of faults on the supply lines. In addition, they also perform regular patrols and scheduled maintenance of the overhead supply lines and
electric poles.
According to records, the major causes of disturbances in the area along the stretch are overgrown vegetation, land-clearing and tree-felling activities by residents, as well as wildlife intrusion.
“Sarawak Energy is continuing to urge residents in the area to be careful when working near electric-related facilities so that they can stay safe; to avoid causing unnecessary supply interruptions, they should also refrain from planting crops or trees under power lines and to try to keep clear of the area,” said Yusri.
Residents can alert Sarawak Energy regarding supply interruptions or channel their queries via its Customer Care Centre hotline 1-300-88-3111, or [email protected].
They can also download the mobile app ‘SEB Cares’, which allows real-time monitoring of billing and outage alerts – it also serves as another channel to reach Sarawak Energy’s ‘Customer Care’ executives.