SEB: RM174m project to beef-up power supply

KUCHING: A RM174 million infrastructure upgrading project has been approved to address electricity supply challenges in the Sebuyau, Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Simunjan and Gedong areas.

In a statement on Saturday, Sarawak Energy Berhad said the project was approved recently by the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication.

It said 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 the power supply.

Given the long stretches of overhead lines serving the Sebuyau area, this system will reduce risk of outages caused by weather and vegetation interference, said SEB.

The utility company unveiled these plans on the heels of recent power outages in Sebuyau.

On Aug 8, an equipment fault triggered by heavy rain caused an outage at 11.30pm, with power restored by 9.20am the following day.

The next day, a lightning strike on an overhead line led to another outage at 5.30pm, which was resolved by 8.30pm.

In light of these these disruptions, SEB said it is committed to improving the stability and reliability of the power supply.

It said it has alsoreceived approval for the construction of a new substation in Sebuyau, which is expected to be progressively completed by 2026.

With an investment of RM24mil, the substation will play a crucial role in enhancing electricity supply to Sebuyau and surrounding areas.

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, it said.

According to SEB these measures are strategically designed to address vulnerabilities and ensure a more resilient power supply network.

In the meantime it encouraged residents not to plant tall-growing vegetation near electrical infrastructure to help maintain safe distances from power lines.

To mitigate power interruptions, it is also ramping up line inspections, vegetation management, and maintenance of aging equipment.

The company is replacing old infrastructure and installing smart technology to facilitate efficient switching operations, expediting power restoration during outages.

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.