UTP (Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS) and reNIKOLA Holdings Sdn Bhd have announced a significant Research Collaboration Agreement (RCA) to enhance the efficiency of large-scale solar (LSS) plants. The agreement was formalized by UTP Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ir Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib and reNIKOLA Head of Operations Andy Cheng.
This partnership arose from a successful industrial training stint undertaken by a UTP student at reNIKOLA last year. Both organizations recognized the potential for a fruitful collaboration and have committed to developing innovative solutions aimed at improving the performance of solar photovoltaic systems.
The RCA will facilitate knowledge exchange and technical collaboration through various initiatives, including student industrial training, technical visits, research and innovation projects, and consultancy services. This agreement highlights UTP’s dedication to driving technological advancement in the renewable energy sector.
UTP has already demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through its collaboration with Gentari Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Malaysia’s PETRONAS Group. This partnership led to the installation of Malaysia’s largest solar photovoltaic rooftop panel, a 7.4 MWp system that has generated over 13,000 MWh of clean electricity since early 2022, covering more than a quarter of UTP’s electricity needs.
The university is actively working towards becoming a Low Carbon Campus by enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Initiatives include upgrading infrastructure, implementing a building management system, and adopting a comprehensive energy management policy.
Looking ahead, UTP and reNIKOLA plan to extend their collaboration beyond the current project. Future efforts will involve long-term system performance pilot tests at additional reNIKOLA LSS locations, with UTP providing consultancy for future reNIKOLA developments. This partnership represents a significant step towards advancing solar technology and achieving sustainable energy solutions.
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