Latest news with #OTEC
The Star
24-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Sabah looking to harness ocean's thermal energy in Tawau waters, says Hajiji
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah hopes to adopt Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) in waters off Tawau as a source of renewable energy, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said harnessing ocean thermal energy was part of the state's Blue Economy goals under the Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda. "In addition, the Sabah Biodiversity Centre and Yayasan Petronas, in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), are also actively carrying out the Seaweed Mapping Project across Sabah," he said in his speech at the World Biodiversity Day celebrations at the Dewan Arena Belia in Semporna,Thursday (July 24). In line with the focus on exploring, promoting, and supporting the Blue Economy, Hajiji gave his assurance that the state government will ensure that tourism activities in Semporna were well-regulated and do not disrupt marine biodiversity but provide benefits and advantages to the people of Sabah. The Chief Minister said that the approval of the Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025 at the recent State Assembly sitting had positioned Sabah as the nation's leader in environmental conservation and resilience against climate change. He said the implementation of the Enactment would ensure the involvement of Sabah's native community and that their rights are protected through the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure. "I wish to emphasise that the Sabah State Government is committed to protecting and preserving the state's natural resources, biodiversity and ecosystem," he said in his speech delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan. He said the celebration's theme, "Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development", is meaningful and underscored the crucial roles both elements play in preserving the health of the planet, enhancing human well-being and ensuring a sustainable future. "This theme is also timely and serves as a reminder to humanity, especially the people of Sabah, not to be complacent when carrying out development activities without considering the sustainability of biodiversity, the well-being of animals, plants, and ecosystems that bring benefits to our lives," he said. "By ensuring that nature is protected and valued, we not only safeguard biodiversity but also secure economic and social well-being for current and future generations," he said. He said that the concept aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Sabah Biodiversity Strategy 2024–2034. At the same time, today's celebration and theme also reflect the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development agenda, which is fundamentally anchored in promoting green practices and supporting sustainable development. Conservation efforts, however, he said, needed strong support from all quarters, including government agencies, the private sector, NGOs, the local community, and the people of Sabah in general. He said the state government, on its part, would continue to implement development programmes that emphasise green sustainability by prioritising the responsible use and management of natural resources, as well as ensuring environmental protection, social well-being, and economic growth for future generations.
New Straits Times
20-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Sabah Blue Economy on track to yield RM3.25bil annually from marine harvests
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Blue Economy is estimated to yield 491,000 tonnes of marine harvests such as fish and prawns annually, with a value of RM3.25 billion, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said marine harvesting is one of 14 components of the Blue Economy that can be explored, such as renewable ocean energy, blue carbon, tourism, maritime transport, and marine biotechnology, among others. "There is more to Blue Economy than just deep-sea harvesting," he said in a speech read by Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun at the International Business Review (IBR) ASEAN Awards here yesterday. Also present was IBR Asia Group founder, director and chief executive officer Datuk Beatrice Nirmala. The chief minister also said that one of the most exciting aspects of ocean energy is the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), which harnesses energy from the oceans. "OTEC power plants are currently being planned to span across 500km of coastline and, in time, to be able to generate 20,000MW of green energy, an unprecedented scale globally. This is not only a gamechanger for the country, it is a gamechanger for the region," he said. Hajiji said the Blue Economy Industrial Park has been established in Kudat as part of three new industrial parks approved by the state government, along with Kota Belud and Beaufort, all strategically located to grow investment opportunities. On the investment front, Hajiji said Sabah had recorded RM17.41 billion from 73 companies in overall approved foreign and domestic investments in the manufacturing sector since September 2020, with 52 companies already setting up businesses in the state with a total investment of RM7.8 billion, creating 3,636 jobs. Between 2022 and 2024, Sabah received new investment proposals worth an additional RM42.3 billion, which will create 32,996 jobs, he added. The chief minister highlighted that Sabah had sealed the Commercial Collaborative Agreement with Petronas, allowing the state to have more participation in the oil and gas industry. This includes 50 per cent equity from the Samarang oil and gas field, 25 per cent equity from Samur, and a 25 per cent equity in the US$3.1 billion (US$1=RM4.24) floating liquefied natural gas (ZLNG) investment in Sipitang. To support the growing investments, the state government has launched the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040. This initiative aims to generate 700MW within the next 1 to 2 years. Additionally, the government has allocated RM679.85 million in 2024 to address immediate water shortages. Long-term plans also include the completion of the Ulu Padas hydropower. Meanwhile, nine winners were announced at the event, namely Institut Jantung Negara for corporate excellence in the healthcare sector, Clean Kinetics Pte Ltd for corporate excellence in the renewable energy sector, Millenium Minerals Ltd for corporate excellence in the mining industry, Sabah Port Sdn Bhd for corporate excellence in the logistics sector, AiRTS Pte Ltd for innovative technology in the artificial intelligence sector, Alpine Integrated Solution Sdn Bhd for corporate excellence in the event management sector, and Education Malaysia Global Services for corporate excellence in the education sector. Negeri Sembilan was named Most Progressive State in Malaysia in 2024, while Sabah was recognised as the Most Outstanding State in Malaysia for 2024.
Barnama
20-07-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Sabah Blue Economy On Track To Yield RM3.25 Bln Annually From Marine Harvests
BUSINESS KOTA KINABALU, July 20 (Bernama) -- The Sabah Blue Economy is estimated to yield 491,000 tonnes of marine harvests such as fish and prawns annually, with a value of RM3.25 billion, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said marine harvesting is one of 14 components of the Blue Economy that can be explored, such as renewable ocean energy, blue carbon, tourism, maritime transport, and marine biotechnology, among others. "There is more to Blue Economy than just deep-sea harvesting," he said in a speech read by Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun at the International Business Review (IBR) ASEAN Awards here yesterday. Also present was IBR Asia Group founder, director and chief executive officer Datuk Beatrice Nirmala. The chief minister also said that one of the most exciting aspects of ocean energy is the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), which harnesses energy from the oceans. "OTEC power plants are currently being planned to span across 500km of coastline and, in time, to be able to generate 20,000MW of green energy, an unprecedented scale globally. This is not only a gamechanger for the country, it is a gamechanger for the region," he said. Hajiji said the Blue Economy Industrial Park has been established in Kudat as part of three new industrial parks approved by the state government, along with Kota Belud and Beaufort, all strategically located to grow investment opportunities. On the investment front, Hajiji said Sabah had recorded RM17.41 billion from 73 companies in overall approved foreign and domestic investments in the manufacturing sector since September 2020, with 52 companies already setting up businesses in the state with a total investment of RM7.8 billion, creating 3,636 jobs. Between 2022 and 2024, Sabah received new investment proposals worth an additional RM42.3 billion, which will create 32,996 jobs, he added.
Daily Express
29-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Hajiji's power solutions are in place
Published on: Sunday, June 29, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jun 29, 2025 By: Datuk John Lo Text Size: ONE of Hajiji's first acts as CM was to reclaim the authority of Power Generation from KL. No such initiative was ever taken before he realised. Sabah would not be able to progress unless he could regain several rights for Sabah from the Federal Government. One of his top priorities was to reclaim the authority on power generation from KL. Daily power shortages, blackouts are not new. In fact, Sabah has been having power cuts and shortage since the 1980s, 40 long years ago! Sabahans, grinding their teeth, suffered blackouts almost daily. Small businesses were badly hit. Sandakan was the worst affected. Not one major investment for new power generation after 285MW gas IPP fully commissioned in 2014. IPP agreements were signed without Sabah's consent. Very serious under investment in power generation for two generations! Sabah's economy really suffered: Hardly investment came to Sabah for 40 years. Very serious economic setback. Like he regained the oil/gas rights, Hajiji retook power generation from KL with no fiery speeches, no blaming anyone, just get the job done. No blowing of trumpet when he got it back. ECoS was formed without fanfare. ECoS has been transforming Sabah's power generation since its inception! Thank God, ECoS has complete authority over Sabah's power generation now. Since ECoS has been formed, No more Delays in Approval for Power Generation. After Sabah's surrender of the authority to the Federal Government in 1982, approvals for new power generation could take up to 18 years or more in some cases. Cries of Sabah's power shortages were ignored and pushed to the back burner, given scant attention, no priority. Hajiji and his team must have burnt the 'mid-night oil' in negotiation with KL. Their hard work has paid off. The Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) was formed on January 10, 2023. It fully took over the regulatory authority for power generation [including renewable energy] on 3 January 2024. In anticipation of Sabah's future energy needs, the GRS government has added the Ocean Thermal Energy Enactment 2024 on April 25, 2024. This amendment empowers ECoS to regulate activities related to Ocean Thermal Power Conversion (OTEC). A most forward-looking move! Instant Solution for Sabah's Power Shortage is Impossible. 4 easily understood reasons: First. Lest anyone has the urging to play the blame game, Sabah's power shortages have started more than 40 years ago. Sabah's power needs have been neglected this long! No quick-fix solution is possible. Second. Power generation requires massive financial resources and construction time. It is not like cooking cheap instant noodle. Third. Power generation is expensive. The ECoS plan is possible and Sabah government can now actively partake in its development because Masidi has put the Sabah's financial management in order. Revenue has been at an all-time high since Hajiji's take over. Now at RM8b, almost double from 2020. Fourth. Hajiji's successful economic restructure has produced investors' confidence in power generation. ECoS has Produced a Miracle for Sabah. No more 18 years of waiting for approvals! ECoS, formed on 3 January, 2023, took over complete regulatory control only on 3 January 2024. CEO Nasser, all engineers, and staff are all Sabahans. They have done an incredible job. Within less than 2 years, everything is in place that will solve Sabah 40-year-old power shortages. Nasser and his team have even got a roadmap that will give Sabah sufficient power beyond 2030. Most impressive is that ECoS has incorporated BESS [Battery Energy Storage System] biomass, solar and hydro to generate power in its master plan. 1 BESS is being installed in Lahad Datu. This is a new dimension for power generation for Sabah. Before, it was total reliant on diesel and gas. ECoS now also plays a pivotal role with state GLCs to strategize gas planning for power and industry needs. The attached chart is self-explanatory and reflective of the ECoS miracle, doubling present 1200 MW capacity. Hajiji's retake of power generation from KL is Pivotal for Sabah's Future. Several reasons: [1]. It is the first ever serious attempt to resolve Sabah's 40-year-old power problem, 40 years of economic doldrum. Soon, these 40 long miserable years will be over. Sabahans must have faith that the all Sabahan ECoS team under Nasser can and will solve this 40-year power problem. A new chapter of power supply is being unfolded now. Soon, when new power generations begin, Sabahans will begin to experience better lives. [2] ECoS plan has inspired investors' confidence. ECoS' master plan has played a indispensable role in Hajiji's strategy to attract massive investment into Sabah. Major foreign investors would not have shown interest or invest their billions in Sabah unless they have faith in ECoS' long term power plan. Sabah is a leading state in inflow of investment, implemented, being implemented and committed total RM58b. [3] ECoS' power master plan will have tremendous impact for all small businesses as constant supply of power will improve their business like never before. [4] For all Sabahans, we can live in better comfort. Babies can sleep in air-con comfort with no disruptions. For the rural folks, in situ solar power for individual kampongs is coming. Hajiji's Creation of ECoS for Sabah, How Important for Sabah's Future To sceptics, please consider these objectives of ECoS: [1] Energy Autonomy and Self-Regulation: ECoS is now the sole regulatory authority for onshore gas supply (since January 2023) and electricity supply and renewable energy (since January 2024) from federal bodies like Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST) Malaysia and the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA). ECoS has direct oversight of licensing, approvals, and policy execution, streamlining processes and potentially boosting investor confidence in the state's energy sector in Sabah. [2] Driving Renewable Energy Development: ECoS will increase Sabah's renewable energy mix. The target is over 50% capacity by 2035 and 80% by 2050. This will be in line with Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). [3] Securing, Sustainable, Affordable, and Accessible Energy: ECoS' vision is to deliver secure, sustainable, affordable, and accessible energy for Sabah. [4] Providing Consumer Protection and Safety: ECoS actively undertakes initiatives to protect consumer interests. [5] Economic Growth and Job Creation, ECoS will develop a vibrant sustainable energy sector and will generate employments for Sabahans. [6] Attracting local and foreign direct investments. [7] Developing skills for Sabahans, especially young Sabahans in the energy sector. [8] Promoting regional corporation, especially Sarawak. ECoS has achieved most of its above objectives within its short existence. All these objectives, though will take a bit of time, will elevate Sabah's economic performance to the forefront once again. ECoS is Epitome of 'Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga.' Hajiji's Success Template for GLCs and Agencies. In addition to Hajiji's GLC successful templates, ECoS is an excellent showcase for GLCs and Agencies. Sabah can be great again when other GLCs and agencies follow their examples. No more Sabah's power problems falling on deaf ears. Sabah has complete control of our destiny in power generation. ECoS is the living testimony that Sabahans can solve Sabah's fundamental problems. We do not need to beg or run to others. ECoS has proven that Sabahans can do it, can do it fast, can do it better. With Nasser's all Sabahan ECoS team, Sabah has moved fast to solve the 40-year-old power problems. They have a sense of urgency to solve the power needs of Sabah because they are Sabahans! ECoS can approve power generation within months, not years, certainly not decades. In Nasser's all-Sabahan ECoS team, we can confidently say to ourselves 'Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga Baik Baik' WITH PRIDE. The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
Sustainability Times
13-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
Europe Unleashes Long-Forgotten Ocean Energy Source as 200-Year-Old Legend Sparks a New Green Power Revolution
IN A NUTSHELL 🌊 Europe is at the forefront of turning the ocean's thermal energy into a viable power source. into a viable power source. 💡 The concept of ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) was first proposed in 1881 by French physicist Jacques-Arsène d'Arsonval. was first proposed in 1881 by French physicist Jacques-Arsène d'Arsonval. 🌍 OTEC technology is particularly beneficial for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) , offering sustainable energy and water solutions. , offering sustainable energy and water solutions. 📈 With technological advancements, Europe and Japan are scaling up OTEC projects, potentially making it a cost-effective energy source. The dream of harnessing ocean energy has been a lingering idea for nearly two centuries. Initially proposed by visionaries, the concept of utilizing the ocean's thermal differences to generate electricity was long considered an unattainable goal. Today, however, this dream is becoming a reality, with Europe leading the charge in tapping the ocean's hidden energy reserves. By turning age-old aspirations into modern innovations, Europe is not only embracing cleaner energy but also paving the way for a sustainable future. This breakthrough marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of renewable energy sources, setting the stage for global adoption. Contemplated Long Ago but Brought to Reality Now In 1881, the French physicist Jacques-Arsène d'Arsonval introduced the concept of ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). He recognized the immense potential stored within the oceans, particularly the temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the colder depths. This temperature gradient, he proposed, could be harnessed to power turbines and generate electricity. Unfortunately, the idea was far ahead of its time, facing numerous challenges such as prohibitive costs and engineering hurdles, which stalled its early adoption. 'Fusion Reactors Were About to Explode': This Insane X-Point Radiator Hack Is Saving the Planet in Real Time Fast forward to today, and OTEC is experiencing a resurgence, largely attributed to advancements in technology and a heightened focus on combating climate change. Notably, Global OTEC, a UK-based startup, is spearheading efforts to commercialize this technology. By 2025, they plan to launch the first-ever commercial-scale floating OTEC platform, named Dominique, in São Tomé and Príncipe. This platform aims to exploit the temperature gradient between surface-level water, around 79°F, and deeper ocean currents, approximately 39°F. Through a closed-cycle system, this gradient will vaporize a low-boiling-point fluid, such as ammonia, to drive turbines, eventually condensing back into liquid form with cold seawater. This cycle of vaporization and condensation generates power. 'Nuclear First Just Happened': World's Largest Stellarator Produces Helium-3 in Unprecedented Breakthrough That Could Power Future Civilizations Europe Tapping into Hidden Energy Sources The principle of OTEC holds significant appeal for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including São Tomé and Príncipe, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Mauritius. These regions stand to benefit immensely from reduced reliance on diesel power and increased access to sustainable energy solutions. OTEC offers several advantages, such as enabling the production of green hydrogen through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity. It also facilitates the production of desalinated drinking water and utilizes cold seawater for air conditioning and refrigeration, enhancing both energy efficiency and water security. 'Mini Nuclear Breakthrough': China Activates World's First Compact Reactor to Deliver Clean Energy to Over Half a Million HomesPlant Set to Power Over Half a Million Homes in China In addition to Europe, Japan is making strides in OTEC development, with plans to expand a 100-kW OTEC demonstration in Okinawa Prefecture to a 1-MW plant by 2026. These initiatives reflect the global momentum behind OTEC technology. Studies suggest that larger-scale OTEC plants could deliver electricity at $0.05 per kWh, comparable to other clean energy sources, thus emphasizing its economic viability. The Ocean as an Energy Source: The Myth Turned Real For many years, the ocean's energy potential was acknowledged but not fully embraced due to technological constraints. The realization that the ocean can generate power independent of weather conditions is now gaining traction, providing additional benefits like enhanced water security. Europe's proactive stance in promoting OTEC technology underscores its leadership role in the global push for renewable energy. By transforming a vision from 1881 into a tangible reality, Europe is demonstrating how past scientific curiosity can be channeled into present-day innovations aimed at creating a sustainable future, one wave current at a time. The Road Ahead for Ocean Energy As Europe and other regions continue to invest in ocean energy, the potential for a cleaner, greener future becomes increasingly feasible. OTEC technology not only offers an innovative approach to energy generation but also provides solutions to pressing issues like water scarcity and environmental degradation. The successful implementation of OTEC projects could inspire other nations to adopt similar strategies, fostering a global shift towards sustainable energy practices. The question now is: how can we further accelerate the adoption of ocean thermal energy conversion and ensure its benefits reach even the most remote corners of the world? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (30)
