An outlook on large-scale solar power production in Peninsular Malaysia for scenario year 2030

Abstract

Abstract Traditional power generation mix lacks renewable energy (RE) sources to cover fast depletion of fossil fuel. Malaysia is picking up on solar energy with the aim of enhancing the national power generation mix by reducing the dependency on fossil fuel and thus mitigate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, integration of large amount of solar power may pose a challenge to power system planning and operation. This paper therefore, attempts to present an outlook on large-scale solar (LSS) in Peninsular Malaysia for scenario year 2030, with objective to serve a guideline for future power planning by adopting the optimum penetration of LSS. Firstly, total optimal potential areas (OPA) for LSS power production in Peninsular Malaysia are determined based on several important geometry factors. Next, its corresponding technical potentials include energy generation potential (EGP), installation capacity (IC) and annual carbon dioxide emission reduction (CO2 ER) are reported. Three hypothetical studies of solar penetration: 5%, 10% and 15% are demonstrated and subsequently compare with national electricity consumption forecast 2030. Peninsular Malaysia has enormous potential for LSS power production as reflected from total OPA of 10,092 km2. With only 10% of solar penetration (206,691 GWh/yr), it is sufficient to cover national energy demand, forecast to be 134,642 GWh/yr. This positive finding is very encouraging to reveal the significant potential of LSS in national energy mix. It will give a much-needed boost to the country RE sector and a robust growth is envisaged.