DEEP within the tunnel, the Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) team can be seen only through the beams of light cutting through the darkness.
The image offers a glimpse into a lesser-seen side of hydropower generation – the hidden infrastructure and behind-the-scenes work that, while largely out of sight, plays an important role in the national energy system.
Key engineering infrastructure of the Ulu Jelai Hydroelectric Scheme, include the 8.5km Telom Diversion Tunnel and 7.4km Lemoi Diversion Tunnel, both measuring 3.5m in diameter.
Water from adjacent catchment areas is channelled through these tunnels for electricity generation.
This is where water begins its journey towards becoming energy, ultimately supporting the lives of Malaysians, economic growth and national development.
The sheer scale of the tunnel offers a glimpse into the complex engineering behind hydropower generation.
The tunnel system helps manage and channel water resources, while the Ulu Jelai Power Station, with an installed capacity of 372 MW, converts this resource into electricity for the national electricity system.
Equipped with headlamps and measuring equipment, the TNB technical team inspects water-filled passages within the tunnels of the Ulu Jelai Hydroelectric Scheme.
In this challenging environment, the work requires focus, experience and expertise as the team carries a significant responsibility – inspecting and maintaining the infrastructure to ensure that the hydro system continues to operate efficiently and safely.
From this meticulous work carried out far from public view comes a benefit that is close to the people – electricity that helps families, businesses and the nation continue moving forward.
