Gamuda wins RM3.048bil contract for Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Project in Sabah

The Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Dam, with an installed capacity of 187.5MW, will contribute 15% of renewable energy sources to Sabah's power supply grid and spark socio-economic growth along the state's western coastal corridor.

KUALA LUMPUR: Gamuda Bhd has accepted a letter of award from Upper Padas Power Sdn Bhd (UPPSB) to serve as the total development contractor (TDC) for the 187.5MW Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Project in Tenom and Sipitang Sabah, in partnership with Conlay Construction Sdn Bhd (Conlay).

Gamuda has indirect interest of 45% in UPPSB via UPP Holdings Sdn Bhd.

“The contract sum of the TDC is RM3.048bil with scheduled commercial operation date to be on or before Dec 31, 2030,” Gamuda said in a filing with Bursa Malaysia.

The scope of work includes the design, construction, testing and commissioning of a 187.5MW hydroelectric plant involving a roller-compacted concrete dam, a main and secondary powerhouse, water conveyance system, project access, and other permanent facilities which include a 275kV switchyard, 33kV sub-transmission line, workshop, stores and operation facilities, and a residential village.

The TDC will be undertaken by an unincorporated joint venture comprising Gamuda and Conlay, of which Gamuda and Conlay shall have 75% and 25% interests respectively.

Gamuda, in a separate statement, said the project, once completed, is expected to generate an average of 1,052GWh of clean energy annually, increasing Sabah’s current dependable capacity by around 15%.

It will also double the renewable energy (RE) mix, supporting the state's goal of achieving approximately 35% RE share in its generation mix by 2035.

"The total development contract is expected to contribute positively to the revenue and earnings of Gamuda Group for the financial year ending July 31, 2025 onwards until completion of the contract," it said.