Sarawak Energy and Trina Solar representatives posing for a group photo after the event. Seated from second left are Yang Yunjia, Ting, Wong, Mohamad Syafiq and Robin.
KUCHING (June 23): Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), in partnership with leading solar energy firm Trina Solar, marked the start of the Batang Ai floating solar farm’s construction with a symbolic site handover ceremony on Tuesday (June 20).
Held at Sarawak’s oldest hydroelectric plant (HEP), the Batang Ai HEP, the project is a major milestone in the advancement of renewable energy in the state, SEB said in a statement today.
Last year, SEB awarded Trina Solar with the tender to develop the ground-breaking 50MW Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FPV) project in the Batang Ai HEP reservoir.
Spanning over 190 hectares, this project is the first large-scale FPV initiative to be constructed on a hydro dam in Sarawak which creates value through hybridisation of renewable technologies and optimisation of grid connection, SEB said.
With its innovative design and strategic location, the Batang Ai floating solar project aims to harness the potential sunlight and utilise the hydro reservoir water body resources.
Once operational, it will generate clean and sustainable electricity, meeting the rising energy demands of the region while significantly reducing carbon emissions, it added.
Its vice president for Strategy and Corporate Development, Ting Ching Zung, was quoted as saying during the ceremony: “We are thrilled to commence the construction of the Batang Ai floating solar farm, which represents a significant step forward in our renewable energy journey”.
“This initiative showcases our dedication to diversifying our energy mix into renewable energy.”
In attendance were SEB vice president for Hydro Polycarp Wong, Batang Ai HEP station manager David Gunda, and Trina Solar Asia-Pacific regional head Yang Yunjia.
Also present were Lubok Antu District councillor Robin Kana and Lubok Antu District Office administrative officer Mohamad Syafiq Midin.
By forging strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Trina Solar, SEB demonstrates its commitment to a sustainable energy future and its influential role in renewable energy development.
Through projects such as the Batang Ai floating solar farm, SEB will continue to drive the development of innovative and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
Throughout the construction process, SEB remains committed to maintaining transparent communication with the local community and stakeholders, adhering to stringent safety measures, environmental standards and sustainable practices to minimise impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
The Batang Ai floating solar farm project symbolises Sarawak Energy’s vision of a cleaner and greener future.
With renewable energy at its core, this initiative drives sustainable economic growth while preserving the natural beauty of Sarawak, SEB said.