Tenaga Nasional Berhad Initiates Cross-Border Collaborations To Strengthen ASEAN Power Grid Vision

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Malaysia’s leading utility company, has taken a significant step toward enhancing the interconnected ASEAN Power Grid by forming strategic partnerships with key counterparts in the region.

Under the first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), TNB has joined forces with PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), the state-owned electricity company in Indonesia, and the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE). Together, they will conduct a joint feasibility study to explore the potential for a cross-border electricity interconnection linking Sumatra, Indonesia, and Peninsular Malaysia. This project is essential for the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and economic development across ASEAN countries.

The comprehensive feasibility study will include technical assessments, policy and regulatory reviews, economic analyses, commercial frameworks, preliminary environmental and social impact assessments, and an implementation plan.

In parallel, TNB, in collaboration with SP Power Assets (SPPA), a prominent electricity transmission and distribution company in Singapore, is actively exploring the technical feasibility of a second power interconnection facility connecting Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. This facility will bolster energy trading between the two regions and improve energy supply reliability.

The signing of these two MoUs took place during the 41st ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM) held in Bali, Indonesia on August 25, 2023. These agreements signify a significant milestone in TNB’s efforts to strengthen the interconnected ASEAN power grid’s reliability and resilience.

TNB President and CEO, Dato’ Indera Ir. Baharin Din highlighted the importance of these agreements in promoting the integration of renewable energy in the region. He stated, “The interconnected ASEAN Power Grid is a critical step in the region’s energy transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

PT PLN (Persero) President Director, Darmawan Prasodjo, emphasized the challenges and opportunities of this energy transition, mentioning the complexities involved in designing and building interconnected grids. He stressed their commitment to making the ASEAN Power Grid a reality.

The ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) Executive Director, Dr. Nuki Agya Utama, expressed optimism about the transformative initiative, reflecting the shared dedication of multiple stakeholders in ushering in an era of sustainable energy collaboration. This initiative aligns with the ASEAN Interconnection Masterplan Study (AIMS) III, which provides a roadmap for vital transmission infrastructure to facilitate multilateral power trade within ASEAN and integrate renewable energy.

These partnerships have the potential to advance energy security, promote renewable energy integration, and shape a more resilient and sustainable future for the ASEAN community.