UMS solar project set to cut electricity costs by more than RM57 million
Commercial operations began on Sept 18, with the first phase providing 10.57 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is expected to achieve electricity savings exceeding RM57 million through a solar energy project, Bernama reported. The installation entered commercial operation on Sept 18.
Vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor said a commercial solar energy engineering company is collaborating with UMS on the project for 25 years, with the university bearing no project cost. He spoke to reporters following the photovoltaic system’s launch in Kota Kinabalu on Sept 30.
Kasim put the university’s current monthly utility bill at about RM1.7 million and said solar power would deliver significant energy savings. He said the initial phase has 10.57 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity and could be expanded as the university’s energy requirements increase.
In his speech, Kasim expressed hope that students and researchers would use the system as a practical laboratory, gathering data and developing expertise and innovations suited to Sabah’s needs. He also urged universities, government, agencies and industry to deepen cooperation through the project to support green technology, talent development and innovation.
