Sarawak Leading Malaysia's Energy Transition with Sustainability Blueprint
Key Ideas
- Sarawak's sustainability blueprint for 2030 includes targets for carbon market development, hydrogen initiatives, and carbon capture and storage, showcasing its commitment to decarbonization.
- The state aims to lead Malaysia in climate action and sustainable development, already surpassing its 2030 renewable energy targets and focusing on hydropower for clean energy generation.
- Sarawak is advancing renewable/low-carbon hydrogen strategies by planning a large-scale hydrogen production hub, domestic and international offtake agreements, and technology commercialization.
- With a significant reduction in carbon emissions from grid-connected power supplies and rich forest resources, Sarawak is making substantial progress in nature-based carbon projects and CCS initiatives.
The Malaysian state of Sarawak, announced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the Asia Carbon Conference in Kuching, unveiled a sustainability blueprint for 2030 that highlights its commitment to advancing Malaysia's decarbonization efforts. Sarawak, known for its abundant hydropower resources, aims to lead the nation in climate action and sustainable development. The state has significantly reduced carbon emissions from grid-connected power supplies by 72% between 2010-2023, with hydropower contributing 70% to its power generation capacity.
Premier Abang Johari emphasized Sarawak's determination to surpass its 2030 target of 60% renewables in the power mix and to publish a full greenhouse gas inventory report by 2027. The state's focus on hydrogen initiatives includes plans for a large-scale hydrogen production hub, domestic and international offtake agreements, and technology commercialization. Additionally, Sarawak is progressing in nature-based carbon projects and carbon capture and storage (CCS) initiatives, leveraging its rich forest and land resources.
In contrast to the positive developments in Sarawak, the US Department of Energy canceled $3.7 billion in funding for carbon capture and clean energy projects. However, Australia is evaluating additional funding recipients for its Hydrogen Headstart program as it seeks to revitalize its renewable hydrogen sector. Furthermore, the European Council approved simplification of the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, while Japan passed a bill mandating large CO2 emitters' participation in the emissions trading system.
Overall, Sarawak's sustainability blueprint and focus on hydrogen initiatives showcase positive progress towards energy transition and decarbonization, positioning the state as a pioneer in Malaysia's efforts for a greener future.
Topics
Training
Renewable Energy
Sustainability
Climate Action
Decarbonization
Carbon Capture
Hydropower
Carbon Market
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
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