Melaka strengthens energy sector to support industrial growth
MASJID TANAH: Caretaker Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh said the state was taking concrete steps to strengthen its energy sector by diversifying energy sources and promoting more sustainable power generation.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh revealed that the state of Melaka is taking action to bolster its energy sector in order to support industrial expansion. With the influx of high-tech businesses and data centers in the region, electricity demand is projected to increase, making it imperative to maintain a dependable energy supply. This issue necessitates planning ahead to fulfill the energy requirements of industries in the future.
The Melaka Corporation (MCorp) and Edra Power Holdings have joined forces to construct an integrated data center ecosystem, aiming to boost power capacity to two gigawatts. Additionally, the 2,242-megawatt Edra Melaka Power Plant (EMPP) contributes significantly to Malaysia's electricity grid, demonstrating the state's advanced energy capabilities. EMPP is a leading combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in Southeast Asia, playing a critical role in enhancing energy security and supporting industrial growth in Melaka.
The partnership between MCorp and Edra Power Holdings also explores the potential development of a floating storage and regasification unit in Tanjung Bidara to bolster gas supply infrastructure and bolster future power generation. An investment of RM6 billion, proposed by Edra, could generate over 3,000 jobs and further strengthen Melaka's energy sector, bolster high-value industries, and generate substantial economic benefits for the population.
Melaka is also advancing its sustainable power generation initiatives. Solar farms in Ayer Keroh, Rembia, Bemban, and Masjid Tanah have a combined annual electricity generation potential of 102 gigawatt-hours. Moreover, Melaka is developing its first hybrid solar project, with a planned capacity of 90 megawatts and completion targeted by the conclusion of 2027. The Sungai Udang Waste-to-Energy Project, expected to generate 22 megawatts of electricity upon completion in 2029, is also progressing.
Ab Rauf stressed the importance of supporting industrial growth through a dependable and sustainable energy system while emphasizing the need to invest in skilled local talent, particularly young individuals in Melaka, through specialized training, industrial placements, and promising career opportunities.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
