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KUCHING: Sarawak made history with the launch of Malaysia’s first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Sejingkat Power Station, led by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). The 60-megawatt (MW) BESS began operations in December 2024, marking a significant milestone in modernizing the state’s energy infrastructure.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg emphasized the importance of BESS in stabilizing and improving the efficiency of Sarawak’s energy grid.
“This is the first system of its kind in Malaysia. If successful, we could deploy BESS to other areas, especially to meet the energy demands of rural regions,” he said at a press conference during his visit to the Sejingkat Power Station on Friday.
Supporting Renewable Energy Integration
BESS plays a critical role in integrating renewable energy sources such as solar power. The initiative aligns with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to achieve high-income economic status through sustainable development.
“Sarawak Energy Berhad has invested RM128 million to install 22 battery containers. This represents a new global approach to energy management, enabling more efficient energy usage,” added the Premier.
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Key Functionality of BESS
The BESS system serves as a backup energy reserve, supporting voltage control and stabilizing grid frequency during emergencies. The Sejingkat Power Station, a 150MW coal-powered plant, is transitioning toward cleaner energy sources, underscoring Sarawak Energy’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.
Senior officials attending the event included Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Sarawak, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and SEB Chairman Dato Ibrahim Baki, among others.
This project sets the benchmark for Malaysia’s future energy solutions, offering a blueprint for achieving a more stable and greener energy future. – UKAS EDITION