BALI, October 31: Sarawak is uniquely positioned to harness hydropower due to its topography and abundant rainfall, as it stands at the forefront in sustainable energy development.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari prioritised hydropower as the primary energy source, aligning with sustainability goals and is keen to harness the strengths it possesses, particularly its favourable climatic conditions and extensive river network.
“We will examine the micro-level usage of renewable energy. We’ll also study the methodology for energy production in Sarawak.
“Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has already initiated a hydroelectric project in Lawas that utilises a similar system,” he told a press conference at the World Hydropower Congress (WHC) in Bali, today.
However, the state is now eyeing a substantial expansion of its hydroelectric production. A study conducted by Snowy Mountains estimated a potential of approximately 20,000 MW, whereas Sarawak has thus far harnessed only 7,000 MW.
“I have requested SEB to revisit the project, believing that an updated approach could push the potential to 20,000 MW,” pointed Abang Johari.
Abang Johari also said that the state envisions a dynamic energy landscape that not only supports its own development but also contributes to the well-being of its neighbouring areas.
“Sarawak’s smaller population compared to neighbouring Indonesia, enables it to focus not only on attracting energy-related investments but also on providing energy to its neighbouring regions.
“Our situation is different from Indonesia, which has a large archipelago with many islands and a super grid to connect them,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari also shared insights of his meeting with former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull where they discussed the untapped potential of hydropower in the region.
He said Malcolm shared Australia’s experience in hydroelectric power generation using a pump hydro system to address water scarcity.
Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s strengths, including abundant rainfall and rivers, suggesting the possibility of relying on natural hydro without harming the environment, thus exploring alternatives to reservoirs.
“It’s possible that we won’t need a pump hydro system but can rely on natural hydro, which we hope won’t harm the environment.
“That’s why we’re exploring alternatives to reservoirs because we have many rivers where we can conduct studies to generate hydroelectric power from running water,” he added. – TVS
