SARAWAK has appointed Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) to spearhead the exploration of the commercial and public applications of hydrogen fuel and hydrogen fuel cells.

Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg said the state power company has allocated an initial sum of RM5 million to set up a team of researchers on “tomorrow’s clean, green technology”.

Abang Johari said even though the government had given SEB 17 years to show results, the availability of hydrogen technology on the international market meant results could be seen “in three to four years“.

“The time frame for result is by 2030 – the year Sarawak had set as its target to become a high-income state – but it can be achieved within three to four years.

“The technology is there. (They only have to) work with the technology provider (to find the various applications of their use).”

One of the areas SEB researchers plan to focus on is the application of hydrogen fuel in the state’s transport sector, particularly in the proposed light rapid transit (LRT) system in Kuching.

“Sarawak Energy’s research in hydrogen and fuel cells shall form an integral part of the government’s new emphasis to develop the state, leveraging on research and development towards reaching our Vision 2030 goals.”

He said the findings and recommendations from this study will be shared with the Research Council the state government will soon form. A bill to form the council will be tabled at the legislative assembly which begins its sitting today.

One of the reasons the state saw as an ideal setting for enabling the hydrogen economy is the abundance of clean hydroelectric power resources.

“It is hoped that hydrogen could be the primary fuel of choice for areas such as the transportation sector and energy storage, as the technology matures and becomes commercially attractive in the future.
Abang Johari said if Sarawak was successful in applying hydrogen technology in the transport sector, the state could reduce its reliance on fossil fuel and lower its carbon footprint.

He said the state’s effort would contribute towards Malaysia’s commitment to reduce carbon emission by 45% by 2030.

He also said if the state’s research is successful, the development would not only benefit the state but open up potential opportunities for Sarawak to export to global markets. – November 8, 2017,