Embracing the global call for sustainability, TNB has embarked on an ambitious journey towards renewable energy and energy transition. At the forefront of this movement are TNB's groundbreaking solar panel projects and innovative battery management strategies, driving Malaysia towards a greener, more sustainable future.
For decades, TNB has made significant strides in bolstering Malaysia’s renewable energy capacity, marked by the successful commissioning of several Large-Scale Solar (LSS) projects. These ventures stand as pillars of TNB’s commitment to sustainability, contributing towards Malaysia’s goal of achieving 20% renewable energy in its electricity mix by 2025.
| Solar Project Name | TNB Sepang Solar (TSS) | TNB Bukit Selambau Solar (TBSS) | TNB Bukit Selambau Solar Dua (TBSS2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity (MWac) | 50 | 30 | 50 |
| Commissioning Date | 23 November 2018 | 8 September 2020 | 21 December 2023 |
| PPA Term | 21 years | 21 years | 25 years |
| End of PPA | 22 November 2039 | 8 September 2041 | 21 December 2048 |
| Number of Solar PV Modules | 243,712 (double glass 325W polycrystalline) | 134,880 (340W monocrystalline) | 131,490 (mixed 570Wp and 575Wp bi-facial N-type) |
Beyond large-scale initiatives, TNB’s subsidiary, GSPARX, has championed renewable energy adoption among the solar rooftops industry in both residential and commercial segments. As of May 2024, with a total of 1,229 residential customers and 226 commercial and industrial customers onboard, TNB has empowered communities and businesses alike to embrace clean energy solutions, with cumulative install capacities of over 134.40 MWp.
| Solar Project Type | Commercial Supply Agreement Renewable Energy (SARE) | Commercial Outright Purchase (OP) | Domestic/ Residential Outright Purchase (OP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity (MWp) | 112.56 | 7.79 | 10.05 |
| Total no. of plants has Commission as of May 2024* | 199 | 27 | 1,229 |
|
Average PPA Term |
20 Year to 21 Year | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Average End of PPA | Year 2040 to Year 2043 | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Average PV modules Life Cycle | 25 Years | 25 Years | 25 Years |
| Number of PV Modules | 225,120 Pcs (Double glass 500W monocrystalline) | 115,580 Pcs (Double glass 500W monocrystalline) |
20,100 Pcs (Double glass 500W monocrystalline) |
These projects signify a substantial increase in TNB’s domestic and international RE capacity. As of fiscal year 2023 (FY23), our cumulative capacity reached 4,375 MW, marking a significant milestone on our journey to secure renewable energy pipeline of 8,300MW by 2025. This progress aligns with the Government's ambition to achieve 20% of the nation’s electricity generation mix from renewable sources by 2025.
Sustainable Practices in Solar Energy Management
Ensuring the longevity and efficiency of solar panels is paramount to TNB's sustainability ethos. Through meticulous monitoring and innovative solutions, TNB mitigates factors such as vegetation shading and panel degradation. Additionally, pioneering tools like automated grasscutters and machine-assisted cleaning exemplify TNB's dedication to minimising environmental impact while maximising solar energy output.
Recognising the need to further minimise environmental impact, TNB is developing tools such as automated grasscutters and machine-assisted panel cleaning. Prototyping is underway, and commercialisation plans will follow upon successful implementation.
Responsible for End-of-Life Management of Solar Panels
As our solar capacity expands, so does our commitment to managing the end-of-life stages of solar panels. We recognise the importance of responsible end-of-life management for solar panels within a circular economy framework. By adhering to strict regulatory guidelines and employing the 3Rs principle (Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle), TNB ensures minimal environmental footprint during decommissioning. Furthermore, TNB actively explores avenues for panel reusability and recycling, aligning with Malaysia's ambitious target of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2050.
Our approach to solar panel end-of-life management adheres strictly to the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Waste) Regulation 2005, entrusting disposal to licensed vendors under the vigilant supervision of the Department of Environment (DOE). This enables regulatory compliance.
A Streamlined Process for Responsible Disposal by Licensed Vendors
Storage of Damaged Solar Panels
Damaged solar panels will be stored at the warehouse of the licensed vendor for further disposal. Approximately 300 solar panels waste have undergone the disposal exercise with the vendor.
Segregation of Solar Panel Components
Damaged panels will be dismantled from their structures and separated. The glass and metal components for photovoltaic (PV) panels are typically first. The glass is broken down, and the metal frames are compressed into bundles.
Recycling and Disposal Process
Following segregation, the glass is disposed of at a designated industrial landfill. The compressed metal, meanwhile, is sold to a third-party for recycling.
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Solar Panels
For solar panels installed for residential, commercial, industrial, and government clients, we prioritise recycling them for reuse at other TNB sites if there is a suitable site for re-installation, and the panels are still under warranty and in good condition.
This stringent approach ensures regulatory compliance but also mitigates the environmental impact of our operations.
In alignment with our circular economy commitment, we proactively explore initiatives across the solar energy lifecycle, from procurement to end-of-life management. These initiatives serve as integral steps towards supporting Malaysia’s target of achieving 70% RE capacity target by 2050. Here's how:
Procurement
We consider the recyclability of solar panels during procurement. This means prioritising components with high recycled content and favouring vendors with responsible sourcing practices.
Product Lifespan Extension
We focus on extending the lifespan of panels through proper maintenance, cleaning, and potential repair programmes. This reduces the need for early replacements and associated waste generation.
Second-Life Applications
We explore opportunities for reusing panels that are no longer suitable for primary use. For example, repurposing panels in non-critical applications.
TNB through TNB Research continuously seeks solutions to enhance solar PV circularity potential. TNB Research has developed the Pilot Recycling System for PVs, which uses thermal treatment for material separation, supported by an optimised heat recovery design. The system is able to separate the PV samples into material components of clean glass, silicon wafer, metal, and other recyclable resources.
By embracing these circular economy principles, TNB aims to establish a closed-loop system for solar energy, effectively minimising waste and environmental impact while fostering a more sustainable future. These proactive measures not only align with our environmental policy, but also serve as tangible demonstrations of our commitment to responsible environmental stewards which aims to:
- Raise awareness among internal and external stakeholders about sustainable environmental practices.
- Enhance our Health, Safety, and Environment Management System (HSEMS) to ensure the highest environmental safety standards.
- Invest in innovative technologies for environmental management.
- Ensure compliance with regulations and identify improvement opportunities.
- Maintain transparent reporting on environmental performance.
- Uphold strict compliance with environmental acts, regulations, and obligations to prevent adverse
Battery Management and Innovation
As our smart grid initiatives continue to progress, battery energy storage system (BESS) will emerge as a critical component in enhancing system flexibility, enabling seamless integration of intermittent renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, and other distributed energy resources, all while upholding grid reliability and security.
TNB will kick start a 400MWh BESS pilot project, marking Malaysia’s first utility-scale battery storage project to address intermittency issues of RE. This pilot project will be operated by Grid System Operator (GSO),and overseen by the Energy Commission.
In collaboration with Sime Darby Property Berhad, we have piloted 3 units of Community Energy Storage System (CESS) installed at Elmina Ilham Residence with battery capacities ranging between 76.8kWh to 170kWh. Green energy generated via rooftop solar panels will be stored in the CESS and utilized for localized community energy consumption while enhancing network stability. These units are currently operating in 3 areas in Elmina, Klang with potential to store a combined total of 0.4MW of green energy.
Such initiatives provide opportunities for homeowners to move into a home powered by green energy, able to sell excess energy to TNB under the Net Energy Metering (NEM) scheme and manage energy smarter, through smart meter and home energy management systems.
In managing the battery lifecycle, we actively benchmark best practices and collaborate with industry partners to:
- Optimise battery performance.
- Explore innovative second-life applications.
- Minimise environmental impact through responsible recycling.
We've also intensified collaboration with vendors who are capable, licensed, and have vast experience in recycling and recovery to process our waste batteries.
Our commitment to responsible battery management extends beyond environmental considerations; it encompasses minimising waste and educating stakeholders on sustainable practices.