Masdar, Sarawak Energy, and Gentari Collaborate on Floating Solar Project in Malaysia

Joint Study Aims to Expand Renewable Energy Capacity and Support Clean Energy Goals
Masdar, Sarawak Energy, and Gentari have entered a partnership to explore the feasibility of a large-scale floating solar power plant at the Murum Hydroelectric Plant reservoir in Sarawak, Malaysia. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen Sarawak’s renewable energy infrastructure and contribute to Malaysia’s clean energy ambitions. The feasibility study will evaluate the technical, environmental, and economic viability of integrating floating solar technology with existing hydroelectric operations, with the goal of enhancing renewable energy capacity in the region.

Floating Solar to Address Land Scarcity and Optimize Hydroelectric Synergies
Floating Solar Technology to Complement Hydro Power and Reduce Land Use
Floating solar projects offer a unique solution to land scarcity challenges, particularly in countries like Malaysia, where land is in high demand for agriculture, housing, and industry. By deploying solar panels on water, these projects reduce land use and can potentially synergize with hydroelectric plants, using the same water sources for both renewable energy generation and reducing water evaporation. The Murum floating solar project would complement existing hydroelectric infrastructure and support Malaysia’s ambitious renewable energy targets of 31% by 2025 and 40% by 2035.

Collaborative Efforts to Drive Malaysia’s Energy Transition
Masdar and Sarawak Energy Lead the Push for Renewable Growth in Southeast Asia
Masdar’s Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi highlighted the importance of this partnership as a major step in advancing Malaysia’s renewable energy transition. He emphasized that leveraging expertise in solar and floating PV technology can accelerate the shift to clean energy while driving economic growth. This project follows Masdar’s 2023 agreement with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority to develop 10 gigawatts of clean energy projects across the country. Sarawak Energy’s ongoing investments in renewable energy innovations, such as the Batang Ai floating solar farm, further align with the region’s push to reduce CO2 emissions.

Gentari’s Role in Supporting Malaysia’s Clean Energy and Net Zero Goals
Commitment to Achieving Climate Targets and Net Zero Future
Gentari, a key partner in the initiative, is fully committed to helping Malaysia meet its climate and renewable energy goals. CEO Sushil Purohit emphasized that the partnership with Masdar and Sarawak Energy is a significant step in advancing clean energy adoption and optimizing the integration of renewables into the region’s energy systems. The collaboration aims to support Malaysia’s efforts to achieve net-zero emissions while positioning the country as a leader in clean energy in Southeast Asia.

Positioning Sarawak as a Clean Energy Leader in Southeast Asia
Feasibility Study Could Position Floating Solar as a Regional Model
The feasibility study will assess the potential for floating solar technology at the Murum reservoir, which could serve as a pioneering model for similar projects across Southeast Asia. If successful, the Murum floating solar installation would not only bolster Sarawak’s renewable energy capacity but also position the state as a key player in the global clean energy transition.