IPOH: Solar farming at unused mining ponds in the state will be more readily accepted by the Orang Asli community compared to developing hydroelectric plants, says Datuk Saarani Mohamad (pic).
The Perak Mentri Besar said most hydroelectric plants were constructed in the forests, and Orang Asli settlements are sometimes affected.
"With hydroelectric plants, there is the possibility the community will raise issues concerning their livelihood, pollution and damage to the forests.
"However with solar farming, this does not arise as unused mining ponds are developed for such purposes," he told a press conference after witnessing a solar project initiative agreement signing ceremony between the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNP) and Gading Kencana Sdn Bhd at his office in the state secretariat building on Wednesday (April 21).
Saarani said the state government had always been committed to developing green technology, and PKNP has been exploring new prospects in the renewable energy industry.
He said Perak is blessed with rivers, lakes and mining ponds and solar technology can be used at these unused ponds.
"This is the fourth solar farm in the state the company has invested in.
"Solar farming creates value for these unused ponds as well as more job opportunities," he said.
