Penang govt identifying locations for floating solar projects
GEORGE TOWN : The Penang government plans to develop floating solar projects in line with its efforts to achieve a target of 10% renewable energy by 2030.
State infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the project was a suitable alternative in expanding the renewable energy sources due to the state's land constraints and the high cost of developing ground-mounted solar farms.
Presently, he said, his team is considering strategic locations with potential to implement the project, including dam areas such as the Teluk Bahang dam and Mengkuang dam.
'Dams are most suitable for a floating solar project in terms of area and water stability, unlike the sea where there are unique challenges and even the panel installation methods are different.
'However, many matters need to be examined first, considering that the dams are sources of drinking water supply and are under the management of the Penang Water Supply Corporation.
'So, it requires approval and also more thorough study,' he told reporters after attending the Malaysian Photovoltaic Sustainable Energy Association Solar Roadshow 2025 here today.
Zairil said the floating solar project would be important for the upcoming Silicon Island, with the area being actively developed and required renewable energy sources as an alternative energy supply.
Therefore, he said, the state government would try to expedite the implementation of the project, especially to support development on the artificial island as the state's new green technology hub.
'It is really necessary for Silicon Island because the first area to be developed is the technology park. In two years, the factory will start operating, so we need renewable energy, especially solar.'
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