Solar project launched to boost East Coast energy stability

Borneo Post

3 days ago

Nizam (second right), Andi (third right), Yusof (second left) and Lo (left) briefed on the solar project by Qsolar Bhd.-Information Department photo
TAWAU (Aug 2): The State Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable energy development with the launch of the Q-Solar Tawau Large-Scale Solar (LSS) Project, expected to generate 15 megawatts (MWac) of clean energy by the end of 2026.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor stated that the high-impact project, developed on a 45-acre site, is a strategic collaboration between Qhazanah Sabah Berhad (QSB), Qhazanah Energy Sdn Bhd (QESB), and QSolar Tawau Sdn Bhd. It will become a key driver of energy stability in Sabah's East Coast.
'This demonstrates the state government's unwavering resolve to create a sustainable development ecosystem, aligning with efforts to position Sabah as a leader in renewable energy,' he said.
'We aim not only to resolve electricity supply issues, especially in the East Coast, but also to shape a future of cleaner, more stable, and resilient energy.'
His speech was delivered by the Chief Minister's Assistant Minister, Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Q-Solar (Tawau) Sdn Bhd's LSS project on Jalan Timur, Kubota, on Saturday.
He noted that the 15MWac generation from this project is a concrete step toward stabilizing Sabah's grid system, which remains heavily reliant on diesel and natural gas. It will also bring economic spillover benefits to local communities.
'This project will strengthen the state grid's capacity, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and balance energy distribution between the West and East Coasts.
'Its implementation aligns with the state's energy master plan, the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan (SERAMP), which provides a long-term framework for transforming Sabah's energy sector.
'The project will deliver significant economic benefits to local communities, not only through construction and investment but also via job creation and local capacity building.'
Hajiji added that the solar farm's operation and maintenance are expected to generate diverse employment opportunities, while construction and support services will involve local Tawau contractors and suppliers.
'Local youth will receive specialized training to manage and maintain this solar system, proving this project isn't temporary but aims for long-term local capacity building.
'Technology transfer, skill development, and direct involvement of Sabahans in the green energy sector will catalyze more progressive and inclusive economic growth, marking a turning point in Sabah's energy landscape, particularly in the East Coast.'
He also commended QSB and QESB for actively fulfilling their mandate as strategic state investment entities by supporting government policies and contributing to Sabah's sustainable energy development.
'Ensuring the people's well-being is today's government responsibility. I hope this project completes on schedule and delivers positive impacts for the people and state,' he said.
Also present were Qhazanah Sabah Bhd chairman Dr Yusof Yacob, Assistant Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Datuk Andi Suryady Bandy, Tawau Member of Parliament Datuk Lo Su Fui, Kukusan Assemblywoman Datuk Rina Jainal, Sebatik Assemblyman Datuk Hassan A Gani Pg Amir, Balung Assemblyman Datuk Hamild Awang, Tawau Municipal Council President Joseph Pang, and Qhazanah Sabah Berhad Group Executive Officer Datuk Rizal Dahli.