KOTA KINABALU: Power disruptions in east coast Sabah are expected to reduce with the launching of Sabah Electricity’s Battery Energy Storage System Lahad Datu (BESS Lahad Datu), says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“The success is an important milestone for Sabah as BESS Lahad Datu is the biggest energy storage facility not only in the country but in South East Asia, designed to enhance grid stability, reduce dependence on diesel and support renewable energy integration in the state,” he said.
He said this at the launching ceremony officiated by Head of State Tun Musa Aman at the Sabah International Convention Centre, here on Friday (Dec 12).
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister cum State Works and Utility Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
He said the state government has also approved nearly 1,000 megawatts (MW) of new capacity, comprising various sources, including hydro, solar and wind.
Earlier, Sabah Electricity chairwoman Saadiah Aziz, acknowledging that shortages and reliability gaps were still affecting households, hospitals, and businesses across Sabah, said the company was moving with urgency and purpose to ensure reliable electricity throughout the state.
“Sabah is now entering a phase where the push toward a more stable and modern electricity system is gaining momentum, and we can no longer afford to delay improvements that are essential for social and economic development,” said Saadiah.
