Malaysia intends to convert coal-fired power stations into renewable energy centres

Malaysia intends to repurpose the sites of decommissioned coal-fired power stations into renewable energy centres and battery-based energy storage facilities. This was announced by the country’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dato' Sri Fadillah Yusof, as reported by Vietnam News Agency (VNA), a partner of TV BRICS.

According to him, existing coal-fired power stations possess significant infrastructure: power transmission lines, industrial facilities and strategically located plots of land. These assets can generate new economic value.

The official noted that a number of sites have high potential for conversion into renewable energy facilities, energy storage systems and other clean energy projects. This will enable them to support the local economy whilst contributing to the achievement of national energy transition targets.

Yusof confirmed that Malaysia has no intention of building new coal-fired power stations. The country plans to phase out coal-fired generation by 2044 and increase the share of renewables to 70 per cent of installed capacity by 2050.

However, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that the development of renewable energy must outpace the phase-out of coal. Otherwise, he warned, Malaysia risks replacing its dependence on coal with an even greater dependence on imported liquefied natural gas.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation continues to prioritise large-scale solar energy projects, mechanisms for supplying businesses with renewable energy, battery storage systems and the modernisation of smart grids.

The authorities believe that decommissioning coal-fired power stations will open up opportunities for new industries, attract investment and help prepare the workforce for the economy of the future.

On the subject of regional cooperation, Yusof reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to the initiative to establish the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) energy network and to expanding cross-border electricity trade in order to strengthen regional energy security and the integration of renewable energy sources.