50pc renewable energy target by 2035 under roadmap and masterplan
Published on: Sun, Apr 27, 2025
By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Director of Strategic Planning at the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) Terence John Kouju Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is embarking on a transformative journey towards clean energy, with the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 (SE-RAMP 2040) setting an ambitious vision for a sustainable energy future, which was unveiled at the Sabah Renewable Energy Conference (SAREC) 2025. Director of Strategic Planning at the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) Terence John Kouju, said the roadmap outlines a clear path to meeting the State's energy demands with renewable sources, targeting 50 per cent renewable energy capacity by 2035. 'This shift represents a commitment to both cleaner energy and economic growth. 'It's a bold goal, but it's essential for Sabah's long-term energy security and environmental sustainability,' he said during the conference here, Thursday. The SE-RAMP 2040 not only focuses on expanding renewable energy sources but also aims to improve energy access and reliability, targeting a reduction in the System Average Interruption Duration Index (Saidi) to below 100 minutes by 2030 and achieving full rural electrification by 2030. Sabah's grid currently records a peak demand of 1,166 MW, with generation capacity projected to increase to 1,334 MW by early 2025 with 13 percent of that capacity coming from solar, hydro and bioenergy. 'To further stabilise the power supply, ECoS is prioritising technologies like Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). 'The 100 MW BESS project in Lahad Datu, expected to be completed by mid-2025, will play a crucial role in managing fluctuations in renewable energy generation,' he said. He also emphasised that rural electrification remains a top priority, with the State focusing on providing reliable, clean electricity to every household, regardless of location. 'Two special committees — the Jawatankuasa Elektrifikasi Luar Bandar Sabah (JELaS) and the Jawatankuasa Teknikal Pembangunan Hidro Sabah (JTPHS) — have been established to ensure that remote areas benefit from energy access and that hydropower resources are responsibly developed.' Terence said. Furthermore, Sabah is embracing advanced technologies like Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). 'With the Sabah OTEC Enactment 2024 in place, studies are underway to explore the potential of OTEC in coastal areas like Tawau, and collaboration with the Federal Government on SMRs could provide a transformative solution to Sabah's long-term energy needs,' he said. As the State progresses towards its renewable energy goals, Terence conveyed optimism that with coordinated efforts across the Government, private sector and local communities, Sabah is well on its way to becoming a regional leader in clean energy. 'Through strong collaboration and innovation, we are confident that our energy future will be sustainable, secure and environmentally responsible,' he added. With a clear roadmap, strategic projects and a strong commitment to sustainability, Sabah is on track to achieve its renewable energy targets and lay the foundation for a greener, more prosperous future. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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