Green hydrogen: Sarawak taps Saudi-listed company

KUCHING: Saudi-listed ACWA Power and Sarawak Economic Development Corporation Energy (SEDCE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly explore the development of large-scale green hydrogen production utilising renewable energy sources in Sarawak.

“This collaboration will leverage the expertise of both parties in sustainable energy solutions which will help to solidify Sarawak’s position as a leader in the new energy sector in the region,” they said in a joint statement.

ACWA Power and SEDCE paid a courtesy call to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at his office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia here recently.

At the courtesy call, SEDCE Chief Executive Officer, Robert Hardin and ACWA Power Chief Investment Officer Thomas Brostrom, discussed the details of the MoU with Abang Johari and its impact on Sarawak in its vision to be the Battery of Southeast Asia.

They emphasised the value of collaborating with ACWA Power, an industry leader with deep expertise in the sector, supporting Sarawak’s positioning to achieve its renewable energy ambitions.

“ACWA Power has developed the world’s largest clean hydrogen facility, the NEOM Green Hydrogen Company.

“Their extensive experience with this landmark project offers valuable insights and we believe that their expertise will significantly support Sarawak’s journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable future,” they added.

“This collaboration exemplifies the profound impact of partnering with industry players who share a vision and commitment to providing affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy.

“The planned project involves the development of renewable energy power plants with a capacity from 2GW to 4GW in Sarawak.

“This facility may incorporate various renewable energy sources, including large-scale solar farms (ground or floating), biomass plants, cascading hydro systems, wind, or wave energy systems, all equipped with Battery Energy Storage System (BESS),” they stated.

They also stated that the renewable energy sources will feed as captive power into an integrated green hydrogen facility, which include an ammonia synthesis plant to produce export-grade green ammonia, positioning Sarawak as a significant player in the green hydrogen market.

ACWA Power is the world’s largest private water desalination company, the first mover into green hydrogen, and a leader in energy transition.