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The Hybrid Hydro Floating Solar Project Leading Malaysia's Renewable Energy Future - The Benefits And Challenges of Floating Solar

(Continuation from Part 1 of the ESG Story – ‘The Hybrid Hydro Floating Solar Project LeadingMalaysia's Renewable Energy Future’, dated 6 March 2025)

While the Hybrid Hydro Floating Solar (HHFS) project holds significant promise, it also comes with its own set of challenges and potential implications on the community and environment.

High Initial Costs

The installation and integration of floating solar panels with hydroelectric systems require significant investment particularly in the areas of floaters and the development of a robust anchoring and mooring system. However, these costs can be offset by the long-term benefits of reduced fuel expenses and lower operational costs.

Technical Challenges

Ensuring the stability and durability of floating solar panels in varying water conditions requires advanced engineering solutions. Regular maintenance is needed to address potential issues such as biofouling and mechanical wear.

Regulatory and Environmental Compliance

Navigating the regulatory landscape and securing necessary approvals can be complex. Engaging with regulatory bodies early in the project planning phase is crucial to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.


Despite some concerns, we are always mindful, a couple of steps ahead, and proactive in carrying out our projects to ensure sustainability and community well-being. To overcome these potential negative impacts, TNB Genco has developed several mitigation strategies to minimise or eliminate the impacts.


Impacted Potential Impacts Mitigation Strategies
Algae Growth
  • Reduced sunlight penetration due to the coverage of solar panels can affect photosynthesis in aquatic plants and algae.
  • This might lead to changes in algae growth patterns, potentially causing either a reduction in algae, which are vital for the aquatic food chain, or the proliferation of certain types of algae that thrive in lower light conditions.
  • Excessive algae growth could disrupt the local ecosystem.
 Environmental Monitoring:
  • Regular monitoring of water quality parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, and algae populations, can help detect and address any adverse changes.
  • This proactive approach ensures that any negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems are promptly managed.
Oxygen Levels
  • The panels' shading effect might influence oxygen levels in the water.
  • Reduced photosynthetic activity due to limited sunlight can lower dissolved oxygen levels, which can adversely affect fish and other aquatic organisms.
Adaptive Design:
  • Adjusting the layout of the floating solar panels to allow for sufficient sunlight penetration in certain areas can help maintain a balance in the aquatic ecosystem.
  • Designing gaps or corridors between solar panel arrays can facilitate the movement of marine life and reduce habitat disruption.
Habitat Disruption
  • The presence of floating solar panels could disrupt marine life’s natural behavior.
  • Fish and other aquatic species that rely on surface access for feeding or breeding may be affected by the reduced sunlight and physical barriers created by the panels.
Aesthetic Impact
  • Some local communities may consider the visual impact of large floating solar arrays on reservoirs unsightly, potentially leading to opposition from residents who value their environment’s natural beauty.
 Regulatory Compliance:
  • Conducting thorough Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and working closely with regulatory bodies to ensure that the project complies with environmental and safety standards.
  • This includes adhering to guidelines for protecting aquatic ecosystems and minimizing the visual impact of the solar arrays.
Community Engagement:
  • Engaging with local communities and stakeholders throughout the planning and implementation phases can address aesthetic concerns and ensure that the project is designed with community interests in mind.
  • Providing information about the benefits of the project and involving residents in decision-making processes can foster support and mitigate opposition.
  • Feedback gathering sessions will be conducted during the planning stage, and the feedback gathered will help address their concerns and incorporate their perspectives into the development process.
Access to Water Bodies
  • The installation of solar panels on reservoirs may restrict access to certain areas for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming, which could affect the quality of life for local residents.

Floating Solar Stesen Janakuasa Sultan Azlan Shah

Figure 1: Benefits and Challenges of Floating Solar

Addressing these issues through mitigation strategies ensures that the project can progress sustainably. As TNB Genco continues to tackle these challenges, the implementation of the HHFS project follows a structured approach to ensure its success and scalability. The project is being rolled out in several phases, each designed to build on the previous one and expand the system's capacity and efficiency.

Project Phases and Sites

The HHFS project is being implemented in phases to ensure a structured and scalable approach. The first phase focuses on feasibility studies and initial installations, with subsequent phases expanding capacity, optimising performance while addressing any challenges that arise. Stakeholders are provided with regular updates on the project's progress, ensuring transparency, continuous improvement and stakeholder confidence.

HHFS Roadmap

Figure 2: HHFS Roadmap

Site Specifics

Selecting specific sites for the HHFS project plays an important role in maximising the benefits and addressing the unique challenges associated with each location.

  1. Kenyir Hydro Power Station

    • Found in Kuala Berang, Kuala Terengganu, and managed by the Sultan Mahmud Power Station. About 50km from Kuala Terengganu, this reservoir extends over 370km² (37,000 hectares), with a generation potential of up to 1,000MW of floating AC solar power.

  2. Temengor Hydro Power Station

    • Located in Gerik, Perak Darul Ridzuan, and managed by the Sg. Perak Hydro Power Stations. This station is around 200km from Ipoh, near the borders of Kelantan and southern Thailand. Covering 152km² (15,200 hectares), the Temengor reservoir can potentially generate up to 400MW of floating AC solar power.

  3. Nenggiri Hydro Power Station

    • Under construction in Gua Musang, Kelantan. This station is roughly 30km from Gua Musang Town. The Nenggiri reservoir spans 53.84km² (5,384 hectares), capable of generating up to 780MW of floating AC solar power.

  4. Chenderoh Hydro Power Station

    • Managed by the Sg. Perak Hydro Power Stations, situated in Kuala Kangsar, Perak Darul Ridzuan. Approximately 20.5km from Ipoh, the Chenderoh reservoir spans 25km² (2,500 hectares) and has the potential to generate up to 70MW of floating AC solar power.

HHFS: A Key Component of the National Energy Transition Roadmap

Our catalyst project integrates innovative technology with practical applications, offering a strategic move towards a better future for Malaysia. It enhances energy reliability in a region traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. We also ensure that our targeted strategies manage risks and engage local communities, affirming everyone’s voices are heard and delivering tangible benefits while minimising environmental impacts. It lays the groundwork for a stable and progressive energy framework in Malaysia.


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