KOTA KINABALU, 26 Jan 2018:
The capacity of renewable energy generated from large hydro power plants – including renewable energy from off-grid systems nationwide so far – is 7,271.74 MW, says Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili.
He said total electricity generated was 21.67% of the current total installed capacity in the country.
“Of the total (7,271.74 MW), Sabah contributed 407.8 MW – which is equivalent to 19.7% of the total installed capacity in Sabah.”
Ongkili said the ministry emphasised the use of renewable energy to achieve the greenhouse gas emission reduction target – which had been set by the country in the Paris Climate Change Agreement 2015.
“Cohesive efforts must be organised to reduce greenhouse gas emission in the energy sector in the country, which is the largest contributor and responsible for 76% of total greenhouse gas emission through fossil fuel combustion.”
He said among mitigation measures were to increase electricity generation through renewable energy sources and reduce electricity generation from conventional fossil fuels.
“Various efforts have been and are being undertaken by experts, policy makers and scholars to find the best way to achieve a balance between sustainable energy sources, the ability to absorb energy costs and the need to preserve the environment.”
– Bernama