Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) is expanding the use of renewable energy (RE) in Sarawak's interior to ensure that more residents have access to a reliable electricity supply by 2030. Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang stated that this effort aligns with the Sarawak Electricity Master Plan 2025-2030, a comprehensive strategy by the state government to enhance energy access in remote areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rubiah highlighted that for regions distant from grid access, the government is implementing the Rural Electricity Supply (BELB) Programme using hybrid solar and mini-hydro systems. This approach is considered more practical than grid connections due to high costs and geographical challenges. She emphasized that this strategy allows communities in interior areas to enjoy a more secure electricity supply without relying on grid connections.

Since 2015, more than 650 sites across Sarawak have been equipped with solar energy systems, covering areas such as Kapit, Belaga, Bukit Mabong, and Song. Rubiah mentioned that several new projects would commence in 2026, including the Ulu Lung Mini Hydro System Project in Busang, a pilot project combining solar and mini-hydro technologies. Planned projects also include Hybrid Solar Projects in Telang Usan, Marudi, and Katibas, alongside upgrading hybrid solar stations in Bario Central and Long Bedian.

In response to a query on manpower capacity to ensure timely maintenance of solar systems, Rubiah explained that since 2022, KKDW has implemented an integrated operating model with Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). SEB provides specialized manpower, including electrical engineers, hybrid solar technicians, field maintenance teams, and remote monitoring teams, while KKDW covers all annual operation and maintenance costs. This model allows for reduced fault response times, ranging from six to 48 hours, depending on the distance and site conditions.