Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), a leading energy provider, is spearheading a transformative partnership with China’s state-owned power utilities to revolutionize the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) through cutting-edge high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology. This strategic initiative underscores TNB’s dedication as a regional energy leader committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions.
During a recent analyst briefing, TNB President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Seri Ir. Baharin Din, unveiled the ambitious venture, highlighting the pivotal role of HVDC technology in facilitating efficient power trading, seamless resource sharing, and the integration of renewable energy (RE) sources among ASEAN nations.
Dato’ Seri Ir. Baharin Din emphasized TNB’s role in pioneering sustainable energy initiatives in the ASEAN region, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The exploration of HVDC technology aims to benefit power trading, resource sharing, and RE integration across neighboring ASEAN countries, potentially through collaboration with China’s state-owned power utilities.
The potential partnership with China’s utilities signifies a strategic move to leverage their expertise and experience in developing complex HVDC projects globally, marking a significant milestone in TNB’s growth journey and reaffirming its dedication to sustainability and technological innovation.
As a strong advocate of the APG, TNB is adopting a comprehensive approach to its responsible Energy Transition (ET) journey, recognizing the importance of regional interconnections. Dato’ Seri Ir. Baharin Din reaffirmed TNB’s commitment to the APG by disclosing the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding with neighboring countries, focusing on interconnection and renewable energy generation.
Moreover, he emphasized the increasing energy demand from data centers and TNB’s efforts in the Grid of the Future (GoTF) initiative, driving the APG’s transformation. With Malaysia emerging as a key destination for data center investments, bolstered by favorable RE policies under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), TNB is actively participating in data center projects.
Dato’ Seri Ir. Baharin Din highlighted TNB’s recent milestones, including the completion of six data center projects totaling approximately 292 megawatts (MW) of demand, with two projects commissioned ahead of schedule. He underscored the strong interest in electricity demand, projecting potential demand equivalent to over 7,000MW by 2035, necessitating TNB’s regulated GoTF investments.
TNB’s focus lies on developing a flexible grid capable of accommodating extensive solar installations and facilitating rapid connections within distributed solar networks and energy resources to meet growing demand. The company prioritizes delivering the NETR project alongside ET, ensuring green, reliable, and affordable power solutions for customers while maintaining national supply security.
TNB’s vision extends beyond providing sustainable energy solutions; it encompasses a commitment to the community, stakeholders, and a sustainable future for generations to come.
