SABAH STRENGTHENS ENERGY SECURITY TO ENSURE MORE STABLE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY - CM

TUARAN, March 14 (Bernama) -- The Sabah state government will continue to strengthen efforts to enhance the state’s energy security through the implementation of various strategic projects to ensure a stable, sustainable and resilient electricity supply in support of economic development and the well-being of the people.

Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor stated the government’s full for initiatives undertaken by Sabah Electricity to improve service efficiency and upgrade electricity supply infrastructure in Sabah.

“The continuous efforts include increasing power generation capacity, strengthening transmission and distribution networks as well as improving service quality for consumers throughout the state.

“In this context, the state government, through the Sabah Energy Council, the Energy Commission of Sabah and related agencies, is implementing a comprehensive strategy in phases covering short-, medium- and long-term plans,” he said during a speech at a Ramadan event at the grounds of At-Taqwa Mosque here today.

Key initiatives include the development of new power generation projects involving a more diverse mix of energy sources, as well as the use of gas-based power plants as a transitional energy source, alongside the expansion of renewable energy and adopting modern energy storage technologies such as Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and pumped-storage hydropower.

Hajiji also touched on how the Sabah–Sarawak Power Grid Interconnection Project, which was launched earlier this year, is expected to further strengthen the stability of the electricity supply system in the state and gradually reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based generation.

“At the same time, it will also increase Sabah’s electricity reserve margin and strengthen investor confidence in the reliability of the state’s power supply,” he said, adding that the recent launch of the 15-megawatt (MW) Solar Project in Tuaran was also an important step in transforming Sabah’s energy structure.

The project not only increases the state’s electricity supply capacity but is also aligned with the implementation of the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 (SE‑RAMP2040), which emphasises renewable energy development and diversification of energy sources.

“This effort sends a clear signal that Sabah is committed to strengthening the state’s energy security because without a stable and sufficient energy supply, it will be difficult for us to attract high-impact investments and develop value-added industries,” he said.

-- BERNAMA