Wed Sep 25 08:34:00 UTC 2024: ## Sabah Aims to Become Malaysia’s Green Tech Leader with Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion

**KOTA KINABALU, Sept 26:** Sabah is poised to become Malaysia’s leading producer of green technology through a groundbreaking initiative utilizing Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). This ambitious project aims to harness the vast ocean resources surrounding the state to generate clean energy.

The Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) has commissioned feasibility studies on OTEC by three companies, which are expected to be completed within two years. Successful studies will pave the way for a pilot project, with full-scale commercial development anticipated within five years.

Initial marine surveys conducted by the University of Technology Malaysia revealed Sabah’s exceptional potential for OTEC, with an estimated capacity of 20,000 megawatts. This clean energy source can be utilized not only for electricity but also for desalination and the production of green hydrogen, a highly sought-after resource.

“Sabah has the highest potential for OTEC in Malaysia,” said Datuk Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid, CEO of ECoS. “Even if we realize only 1% of the estimated potential, the output will still be significant.”

The focus for OTEC development will be in offshore areas near Tawau and Semporna, approximately 30 kilometers from the coastline.

Sabah’s long-term vision includes exporting green hydrogen and exploring its domestic use in rural areas, solidifying the state’s position as a key player in global green energy production.

“Since our OTEC enactment was gazetted and approved, we’ve received interest from global parties, including a company from Australia that has presented its proposal,” Abdul Nasser stated.

Sabah’s commitment to green energy is further demonstrated by the recent approval of the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Enactment 2024 and the Energy Commission of Sabah Enactment (Amendment No. 2) 2024, enabling the state to regulate OTEC facilities.

While the initial costs for OTEC are high, the focus will be on producing premium products like green hydrogen, which command higher market prices. This initiative aligns with Sabah’s and Malaysia’s goals for a sustainable energy future.

The project will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in supporting Sabah’s industrialization and meeting its future energy needs.

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