Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said the project will significantly increase the solar and hydroelectric power generation capacity in Batang Ai to 158 megawatts (MW), making it Malaysia’s first producer of two types of renewable energy in a hybrid system.

“The solar farm will generate 50MW of power, while the Batang Ai reservoir currently produces 108MW of hydroelectric power. When completed, Batang Ai will generate a total of 158MW,” he told reporters after visiting the farm today.

Abang Johari said the 8,500ha area in Batang Ai can potentially increase solar power generation to around 2,000MW through foreign and local investments.

He said Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB), the state government-owned company responsible for the project, would be conducting studies to expand the green energy initiative.

“I have discussed with SEB to attract more investments from foreign companies, as recent amendments to Sarawak’s laws now permit private entities to invest in power generation.

“This will enable Sarawak to obtain 2,500MW of green energy from Batang Ai alone,” he said, adding that this will boost the aquaculture, hydropower and solar sectors.

The project is a collaboration involving SEB, China Power International Holdings and solar energy company Trina Solar.