The need to achieve the 2030 Climate Pledge and reach net zero by 2050 in Malaysia, as outlined in the Paris Agreement 2015, is becoming increasingly urgent. In order to meet this commitment and transition to cleaner renewable energy sources, Malaysia’s leading sustainable energy solutions provider, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), organized a conference on Aug 28 and 29. The Energy Transition (ET) Conference, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, served as a platform for discussions, forums, and exhibitions on various aspects of decarbonization efforts.
The conference brought together industry experts from around the world to address issues, strategies, and potential opportunities related to the energy transition. Over the course of two days, the event focused on topics such as the future of energy, green mobility, sustainable cities, and digitalization.
In his welcome address, TNB chairman Datuk Abdul Razak Bin Abdul Majid highlighted the approach taken by TNB to boost renewable energy capacity, improve energy efficiency using smart technology, promote emerging renewable technologies like hydrogen and ammonia, and strengthen regional collaboration in green energy exchanges. These efforts are aimed at supporting stakeholders in achieving their goals.
The conference also marked the unveiling of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, and Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change (NRECC) Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. The NETR provides policy clarity to shape Malaysia as a leader in energy transition within Asia. It outlines a low-carbon pathway for the energy sector and aims to accelerate the shift from a traditional fossil fuel-based economy to a high-value green and sustainable economy.
TNB president and CEO Datuk Baharin Din emphasized the progress made by TNB in implementing its Energy Transition agenda since establishing its net zero aspirations in 2021. The pathway outlined in the NETR focuses on accelerating generation decarbonization, developing a flexible and cross-border grid, and empowering cross-sector electrification and prosumers. Baharin highlighted the importance of balancing the energy trilemma while supporting the nation’s economic growth.
TNB aims to invest over RM90 billion in the grid over the next six years, with 40% of the capital expenditure dedicated to energy transition-related projects. Additionally, TNB is committed to strengthening the ASEAN interconnection to support renewable energy allocation, enhance system security, and attract new investments projected to be worth over US$6.3 trillion by 2050.
Notable contributors at the conference included International Renewable Energy Agency director general Francesco La Camera, who emphasized the need for urgent action in global energy transition. He pointed out that although significant investments have been made in renewable energy projects, fossil fuel investments still outpace renewables. This disparity must be addressed through clear roles, collaborative efforts, and the establishment of a new energy system.
European Association for Electromobility president Espen Hauge highlighted the importance of promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption and the need for immediate action. Dr. Serina Hijjas, principal director at Hijjas Kasturies Associates, emphasized the role of green buildings in mitigating climate change, stating that greenery helps lower air temperature and reduces energy consumption. Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy Group, discussed the economic benefits of utilizing data and technology to optimize energy consumption and provide cleaner and more cost-effective services.
The discussions and partnerships formed at the conference were crucial for advancing Malaysia’s Net Zero goals. The event generated ideas, solutions, and actionable outcomes, which TNB will continue to pursue offline, further contributing to the nation’s energy transition journey.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
