Sarawak Expands Green Energy Capacity with Renewable Initiatives

Sarawak is advancing its renewable energy agenda with plans to increase its electricity capacity to 10 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and 15GW by 2035, strengthening its position as a key green energy hub in ASEAN.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the expansion during a public lecture at the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, emphasizing Sarawak’s goal to become the “Battery of ASEAN.” The initiative includes the development of hydropower and enhanced cross-border electricity connectivity under the ASEAN Power Grid project, which aims to improve regional energy security and distribution efficiency.

With Asia’s growing demand for clean fuel, Sarawak is also scaling up green hydrogen production. Collaborations with Japan, South Korea, and China are strengthening the state’s hydrogen supply chain, positioning it as a leader in the Asia-Pacific green hydrogen market. However, Abang Johari noted that hydrogen alone is insufficient for full decarbonization, prompting Sarawak to integrate Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technology to reduce emissions in hard-to-abate industries.

Additionally, Sarawak is playing a strategic role in Malaysia-Japan cooperation on low-carbon ammonia production. The partnership focuses on utilizing syngas technology to convert methane into ammonia, supporting the region’s transition to cleaner energy solutions.

The state is also making significant progress in low-carbon fuel initiatives. The Sarawak Methanol Complex, launched in July 2024, is set to drive industrial growth and support the transition to greener energy. In a key milestone, Sarawak Petchem recently exported its first methanol shipment to China and commenced construction of a Green Methanol Plant. Once operational, the plant will enhance sustainable fuel production for industries such as chemicals, power generation, and shipping.

Sarawak’s broader decarbonization strategy integrates renewable energy with CCUS technologies to reduce emissions across multiple sectors. The Sarawak Gas Roadmap, launched in November 2023, outlines strategies to optimize natural gas utilization while incorporating renewable energy sources.

Biomass energy production is also being expanded, with agricultural waste being converted into biofuels, biogas, and syngas to support industrial decarbonization. Additionally, research into microalgae-based Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is progressing, offering new opportunities to reduce emissions in the aviation industry.

Beyond energy production, Sarawak’s transition to sustainability includes urban development and digital transformation, aimed at creating smart, eco-friendly cities. Through these initiatives, Sarawak continues to strengthen its role as a key player in ASEAN’s green energy transition and industrial decarbonization efforts.