Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has unveiled Malaysia’s first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Sejingkat Power Plant, marking a significant step in the country’s green energy transition.
The newly commissioned 22-container BESS is designed to enhance power generation and grid optimization by providing essential services such as emergency reserves, voltage and frequency regulation, and peak demand management. This initiative responds to the growing demand for a reliable and sustainable electricity supply.
In a visit to the facility, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg highlighted that the Sejingkat Power Plant, which has been a coal-fired facility since 1998, is now part of SEB’s efforts to explore alternative power generation methods. The BESS project, with a capacity to generate 60MW of electricity, is the first of its kind in Malaysia, marking a pioneering move toward sustainable energy solutions.
“Today, I visited the BESS facility at Sejingkat, which will generate power and supply it through the state grid. Sarawak Energy has invested RM128 million in this groundbreaking project, with 22 containerized battery units,” said Abang Johari during a press conference at the facility.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Sarawak Energy Chairman Datuk Ibrahim Baki, Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, and other distinguished officials.
Abang Johari also discussed the potential for replicating the BESS project at other locations, such as the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Dam. The containerized system’s mobility and rechargeability could support power plants and enhance energy availability in rural areas.
Additionally, the Sejingkat Power Plant is exploring the creation of a hybrid green energy system by combining biomass and battery storage. The battery storage system is currently being tested to support electricity distribution to the Sarawak grid.
This initiative aligns with Sarawak’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which envisions achieving high-income status by 2030, with renewable energy identified as a key driver for sustainable economic growth.
Sarawak Energy’s Group CEO Datuk Sharbini Suhaili emphasized the importance of the BESS in addressing rising energy demand, ensuring a stable power supply, and increasing the capacity to support industries, businesses, and communities across Sarawak. This project is seen as a significant contribution to Sarawak Energy’s commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
