TNB Bukit Selambau Solar 2 (TBSS2) is part of Malaysia's Large Scale Solar (LSS) initiative, a competitive tender programme led by the Energy Commission of Malaysia. This initiative aims to develop large-scale solar photovoltaic plants across the country to boost renewable energy production and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The Energy Commission of Malaysia, or Suruhanjaya Tenaga, regulates the country’s energy industry. It ensures that energy projects are developed and managed according to national policies and goals. For the LSS programme, the Energy Commission oversees the tender process, ensuring it is conducted fairly and that projects like TBSS2 meet all necessary technical and environmental standards. They are crucial in ensuring solar farms contribute effectively to Malaysia’s renewable energy targets.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Malaysia's largest electricity utility company, plays a central role in this initiative. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, TNB Renewables Sdn Bhd (TRe), TNB is responsible for developing, managing, and operating TBSS2. As a key player in the country's energy sector, we are committed to transitioning Malaysia's energy production towards more sustainable sources. By leading projects like TBSS2, TNB achieves its commercial objectives and aligns with national and international goals to combat climate change through renewable energy initiatives.

Project Overview

TBSS2, managed by TNB Renewables Sdn Bhd (TRe), is a key project under the LSS4 programme. The 50 MW solar farm covers 180 acres and contributes significantly to Malaysia's renewable energy capacity. The project successfully commenced commercial operations on 21 December 2023, ahead of its scheduled date, marking a significant achievement in TNB’s renewable energy portfolio.

The construction of TBSS2 was completed in 14 months, beginning in October 2023 and concluding in December 2024. The project involved the installation of 131,490 Bi-Facial Monocrystalline solar panels, each with a capacity of 570W and 575W. These panels are connected to the grid through 8 inverters and are supported by 223 combiner boxes and 4,870 strings. The electricity generated by TBSS2 is transmitted via overhead cables across a 1.6 km distance from the TBSS station to the Bukit Selambau Main Intake Substation (PMU). The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 60,511 tonnes annually, equivalent to removing approximately 13,150 cars from the road each year.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Agenda

Developing large-scale solar farms, such as TBSS2, offers numerous ecological benefits, aligning with Malaysia's sustainability goals and global environmental standards.

Firstly, TBSS2 leverages an unlimited energy source: sunlight. Solar farms utilise solar energy, a renewable resource, which reduces reliance on finite energy sources like coal and gas. This shift supports sustainable development and aids in lowering Malaysia's carbon footprint.

Secondly, solar energy is inherently clean and does not emit greenhouse gases during electricity generation. The TBSS2 project is expected to decrease carbon emissions by approximately 59,446 tonnes of CO2 annually, contributing significantly to the fight against climate change.

Moreover, large-scale solar farms' operational costs are lower than traditional power plants that rely on coal and gas. This cost efficiency makes solar energy a more economically viable option long-term, further encouraging the transition to renewable energy sources.

Additionally, TBSS2 is important to Malaysia’s energy transition programme by contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable national energy supply. This supports the country’s broader efforts to move towards a greener economy.

Beyond environmental benefits, TBSS2 also provides substantial socio-economic advantages. The project has created local job opportunities during the construction and operational phases, fostering economic development in the surrounding areas.

Lastly, various legal frameworks and financial incentives support solar energy growth in many countries, including Malaysia. These measures promote renewable energy, making projects like TBSS2 more feasible and attractive to investors.

The development of TBSS2 has created numerous job opportunities for residents, ranging from professional roles in solar farm management to general positions such as security, cleaning, and maintenance. This has contributed to the local economy and improved the standard of living in the surrounding communities.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives - Supporting the Bukit Selambau Community

TNB and TRe are committed to improving the well-being of communities around our projects. In Bukit Selambau, our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focus on key areas:

Through these initiatives, TNB and TRe have not only contributed to the immediate well-being of the Bukit Selambau community but have also invested in the area's long-term social and educational development. This approach reflects TNB’s holistic vision of corporate responsibility, where economic progress is intertwined with social upliftment and community empowerment.

A Major Step Towards a Sustainable Future

The TNB Bukit Selambau Solar 2 project is a significant step towards Malaysia's commitment to sustainable energy development. By harnessing solar energy, TBSS2 not only contributes to the national energy grid but also supports the global effort to combat climate change as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Through ongoing CSR initiatives and job creation, the project plays a vital role in the economic and social development of the local community while also helping Malaysia fulfil its international climate commitments.

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