Tawau solar project powers Sabah's green energy agenda
TAWAU (Aug 2): The State Government continues to reinforce its commitment to sustainable energy development through the launch of the Tawau Q-Solar Large-Scale Solar (LSS) project, expected to generate 15 megawatts (MWac) of clean energy by the end of 2026.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor, said this high-impact project on a site of over 45 acres is being developed through a strategic collaboration between Qhazanah Sabah Berhad (QSB), Qhazanah Energy Sdn Bhd (QESB) and QSolar Tawau Sdn Bhd (QSolar).
He said that the solar project not only serves as a major driver of energy stability in the eastern region of the state but also demonstrates the state government's ongoing commitment to providing a sustainable development ecosystem in line with efforts to make Sabah a leader in renewable energy.
'We are not just looking to solve electricity supply issues, especially in the East Coast, but are striving to shape a cleaner, more stable and resilient energy future,' he said at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Q-Solar Large-Scale Solar (LSS) Project at Jalan Timur, Kubota on Saturday.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Haji Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan.
He said the generation of 15MWac from this project is a concrete step towards stabilizing Sabah's grid system, which is currently still overly reliant on diesel and natural gas-based generation.
'This project will strengthen the state grid's capacity, reduce dependence on fuel, and at the same time balance energy distribution between the West Coast and East Coast,' he said.
Hajiji added that the implementation of this project aligns with the state energy master plan, the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan (SERAMP), which serves as the long-term framework for the transformation of Sabah's energy sector.
He said the development of this project also brings economic benefits to the local community, not just in terms of construction and investment, but also through job creation and local capacity development.
He stated that the construction, operation and maintenance phases of this solar farm are expected to generate various job opportunities, while construction work and supporting services will involve local contractors and suppliers in Tawau.
'Local youths will also be provided with specific training to manage and maintain this solar system. This proves that the project is not temporary, but aims to build long-term local capacity,' he said.
He noted that the aspects of technology transfer, skill development and direct involvement of the people of Sabah in the green energy sector, will serve as a catalyst for more progressive and inclusive economic growth.
Hajiji also described this project as a starting point for changing the energy industry landscape in Sabah, particularly on the East Coast.
He applauded the active role of QSB and QESB, as a strategic state investment entity by supporting government policies and contributing to sustainable energy development in Sabah.
'Ensuring the welfare of the people is the responsibility of the government today, and I hope this project can be completed on schedule and have a positive impact on the people and this state,' he said.
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