Sarawak Energy: Batang Ai HEP Stage 2, 3 upgrades from now to Aug 8 and Aug 24-25

KUCHING (July 27): The planned shutdown at the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant (HEP) for its Stage 2 and 3 upgrades will now take place from July 27-Aug 8 and Aug 24-25.

Sarawak Energy Berhad in a press release explained these upgrades are to enhance the reliability of the plant and contribute to grid stability.

“During the upcoming planned shutdown, with lower water discharge from the Batang Ai HEP, lower water levels downstream may potentially affect downstream water supply,” it said.

Sarawak Energy explained it is implementing a series of system upgrades to its Batang Ai HEP from May to Aug this year to streamline the power plant’s system to enable better management of power generation and water resources while enhancing the plant’s efficiency and reliability.

The first stage of the system upgrading works for the automation project was undertaken from May 17-21 without affecting the local water supply, and the plant successfully resumed operation of all four generating units on May 22.

“During the Stage 2 and 3 upgrades, turbine operations will once again be temporarily suspended. The Cooling Water System and Fire Hydrant System will continue discharging minimal water for environmental flow (or minimum riparian flow) downstream.

“Sarawak Energy will also work with the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) on alternative water supply solutions if necessary,” it said.

As such, Sarawak Energy assures the neighbouring communities in Batang Ai that all measures are in place to mitigate any impact on the power supply.

Alternative arrangements and backup power sources will also be utilised to ensure continuous and reliable electricity supply throughout the shutdown period, it assured.

“Sarawak Energy appreciates the understanding and cooperation of customers and stakeholders during this period to facilitate the smooth implementation of the automation project,” it added.