Sarawak targets 15,000MW generation capacity by 2035
Three power projects totalling 3,285MW are being implemented, while the state is also planning electricity exports to additional markets.
Sarawak is targeting 15,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity generation capacity by 2035, with renewables accounting for at least 60 percent, according to Sarawak Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
Speaking during his ministry’s winding-up debate at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN), Julaihi said three projects under implementation would provide a combined 3,285MW: Baleh, Samalaju and Miri.
The 1,285MW Baleh hydroelectric project is expected to begin operating in the fourth quarter of 2029. At the 1,500MW Samalaju Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP), Blocks 1 and 2, together providing 1,000MW, are expected to begin operations in the second quarter of 2027. The 500MW Block 3 is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
Physical progress on the 500MW Miri Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) has reached 63%, Julaihi said. Operations are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027.
On electricity trade, Julaihi said average exports currently stand at 100MW to West Kalimantan and 30MW to Sabah. Planned exports comprise at least 30MW to Brunei, up to 1,000MW to Singapore and at least 1,000MW to Peninsular Malaysia.
The Brunei interconnection remains subject to negotiations and feasibility studies. A submarine cable survey study is under way for Singapore, while discussions concerning Peninsular Malaysia are at an early stage, he said. Julaihi also cited development of the Borneo Power Grid and Asean Power Grid as part of Sarawak’s regional electricity role.
