Sarawak has formally declared its ambition to become the “Battery of ASEAN,” a vision supported by a robust strategy to significantly expand its renewable energy capacity. The state plans to increase its power generation capabilities to 10 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and an ambitious 15 GW by 2035, positioning itself as a central provider of clean energy for the region. This initiative is a cornerstone of Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 and aligns with its long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The foundation of this plan is Sarawak’s existing energy mix, which is already 62% renewable, primarily driven by its extensive hydropower resources. Premier Abang Johari has highlighted the strategic importance of water, referring to it as a “new commodity” that will power both existing hydropower facilities and future green hydrogen production. While hydropower remains the backbone, Sarawak is aggressively diversifying its portfolio to ensure a resilient and modern energy system.
A key element of this diversification includes a target of adding 1.5 GW of both ground-mounted and floating solar power by 2030. Beyond solar, the state is venturing into innovative bioenergy solutions, with plans to scale algae biomass production to 140,000 tonnes annually on 2,000 hectares of land. Further strengthening its commitment to a circular economy, Sarawak is advancing waste-to-energy projects, supported by the new Sustainable Resources and Wastes Management Bill.
To manage the integration of these varied renewable sources, Sarawak is focused on grid stability. A significant milestone was achieved in 2024 with the launch of Malaysia’s first large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS). This technology is crucial for maintaining a reliable power supply. These domestic advancements are designed to enable Sarawak to become a net electricity exporter, contributing significantly to regional energy security through initiatives like the Borneo Grid and the wider ASEAN Power Grid.
Sources of Sarawak green energy: Impressive 2030 ASEAN battery goal
- Water the new commodity: Sarawak accelerates coverage, powers ‘Battery of ASEAN’ renewable energy goals
- Sarawak aims to become an RE hub for the region
- Powering Progress: Sarawak and Southeast Asia Step Up the Clean Energy Transition
- Sarawak aims to be ‘Battery of Asean’ by 2035
- Boosting renewable power with large-scale energy storage in Southeast Asia
- Waste Management Bill Backs ‘Battery Of ASEAN’ Goal
