Keyfield Completes Landmark Solar PV Project on Offshore Vessel, Sets Malaysia Record

Keyfield International Berhad (Keyfield) has successfully completed its pilot solar photovoltaic (PV) project on its largest vessel, Keyfield Wisdom (formerly Blooming Wisdom), a 500-men accommodation work barge. The project was executed in partnership with Worldwide Holdings Berhad (Worldwide), a leading turnkey contractor specializing in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Keyfield’s Group Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director, Encik Mohd. Erwan bin Ahmad said, “We are extremely thrilled that this Solar PV system is now fully completed and operational. It demonstrates our commitment to advancing sustainability within the maritime industry while representing a significant step forward in our Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) journey. By adopting innovative solutions to greenify our assets within the space confines of our vessel(s), we aim to contribute to global climate action while continuously achieving long-term operational excellence.”

He continued, “The solar PV project is part of our broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency in our operations. We undertook this project at our own initiative as we understand that it aligns well with the sustainability agenda of our clients, such as Petronas Carigali Sdn. Bhd. and Sarawak Shell Berhad/ Sabah Shell Petroleum Co. Ltd. It will reduce their operational costs when they are chartering our
vessels which are equipped with such a system.”

Recently commissioned, the solar PV system features a 121.2kWp solar hybrid setup integrated with a battery energy storage system (BESS), reducing the vessel’s dependence on onboard generator sets, cutting fuel consumption, and lowering carbon emissions. Keyfield Wisdom has also been recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records for having the highest number of solar panels with battery storage installed on an offshore vessel.

Worldwide’s Chief Operating Officer, Renewable Energy Division, Encik Alif Shah said, “As Keyfield’s EPCC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning) partner, we played a crucial role in delivering this sustainable solution, demonstrating our commitment to advancing green energy initiatives and supporting the maritime industry to adopt cleaner and greener practices. From conception to inception and completion, the project was executed with exceptional precision.”He added, “One of the challenges for this project was the time factor. Due to its chartering commitments to its clients, Keyfield Wisdom was only available for us to carry out the work when itwas berthed in Labuan while undergoing its periodic maintenance works. Nevertheless, we managed to complete the project 15 days ahead of schedule, reflecting the effective co-ordination and dedication of all parties involved. The recognition from Malaysia Book of Records was the icing on the cake.