Sarawak Energy: Aug 8 power outage in Sebuyau caused by equipment fault

KUCHING (Aug 17): An equipment fault triggered by heavy rain caused an outage in Sebuyau at 11.30pm on Aug 8, with power restored by 9.20am the following day, said Sarawak Energy.

In a statement released on Friday, it said that on Aug 9, a lightning strike on an overhead line led to another outage at 5.30pm, which was resolved by 8.30pm.

“Sarawak Energy acknowledges the recent power outages in Sebuyau and sincerely apologises to its customers for the inconvenience caused,” it said.

Recognising the impact of these disruptions, Sarawak Energy pledged to improve the stability and reliability of the power supply.

It said a recently approved RM174 million infrastructure upgrading project by the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication aims to strengthen the electricity supply across Sebuyau, Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Simunjan and Gedong and addressing ongoing power supply challenges in these areas.

A key component of the project is the construction of a double circuit Medium Voltage Covered Conductor (MVCC) from the Asajaya 33/11kV Substation to the Batang Sadong bridge.

The MVCC system is designed to withstand contact with vegetation without disrupting power supply.

It noted given the long stretches of overhead lines serving the Sebuyau area, this system will reduce risk of outages caused by weather and vegetation interference.

In addition, Sarawak Energy received approval for the construction of a new substation in Sebuyau, which is expected to be completed by 2026.

With an investment of RM24 million, the substation will play a crucial role in enhancing the electricity supply to Sebuyau and surrounding areas, further improving the stability and reliability of the power grid.

Other key infrastructure improvement measures include the installation of a double submarine cable crossing the Batang Sadong river, the deployment of single circuit 33kV Covered Conductors from Batang Sadong to the Sebuyau Ferry Terminal and from the Batang Sadong bridge to Simunjan town.

Transformers and other electrical equipment will also be upgraded as part of this initiative.

“These measures are strategically designed to address vulnerabilities and ensure a more resilient power supply network,” it said.

Sarawak Energy also pledged to engage with the local community throughout the duration of this project, and encouraged residents to report concerns and avoid planting tall-growing vegetation near electrical infrastructure to help maintain safe distances from power lines.

“Sarawak Energy is available to assist with any risks to power lines, reducing outages and ensuring a stable electricity supply. To mitigate power interruptions, Sarawak Energy is ramping up line inspections, vegetation management and maintenance of ageing equipment.

“The company is also replacing old infrastructure and installing smart technology to facilitate efficient switching operations, expediting power restoration during outages,” added the statement.

Sarawak Energy called for public cooperation in reporting any outages promptly and said its technical team is available 24/7 to address issues.

Outages can be reported by calling Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, emailing [email protected], via the SEB Care mobile app or by interacting with the virtual agent Carina.