THE Penang government has always been actively promoting the adoption of green energy, particularly solar energy within the state.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this is important to make sure that Penang continues its social and economic development without neglecting its environment.
“In keeping with the Penang2030 vision of ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’, the state government, through the Penang Green Council, has launched the Penang Green Agenda (PGA) 2030 in 2021.
“PGA is a framework and roadmap for Penang to move forward as a state, powered by a green economy by 2030.
“Under PGA 2030, the state has achieved several milestones, including the formation of the Penang Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Taskforce (PREET) that is aimed at substantially increasing the uptake of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Penang by 2030.
“This, in turn, will entail introducing an effective and implementable framework, which will include regulations or by-laws, incentive and assistance packages as well as industry or sectoral policy.
“Among the goals are to advance the readiness of local manufacturing industries for the digital age and the green economy, as well as to modernise and diversify sustainable agriculture,” Chow said in his speech during the Malaysian Photovoltaic Industry Association (MPIA) Solar Roadshow 2022 at Eastin Hotel Penang in Bayan Lepas today.
Also present were state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, MPIA president Davis Chong Chun Shiong and Persatuan Kebajikan 88 Kapten Pulau Pinang (88 Captains) chairman Datuk Seri Ooi Eng Hock.
According to Chow, countries around the world are moving towards a green economy in order to achieve more sustainable development.
“This is reflected in the European Union’s new ‘Green Deal’ and China’s Ecological Civilisation.
“These countries recognise the benefits of turning climate and environmental challenges into opportunities that will create new jobs and industries.
“The Malaysian government too has identified green technology as a new area of economic growth, with solar energy playing a significant role.
“As a matter of fact, our local solar industry has already begun to make significant progress over the last decade. This is evidenced by global solar panel manufacturers establishing production facilities in Malaysia and the development of local companies’ capacity in solar system design, engineering, consultancy, operation, and maintenance,” he said.
Chow added that all of these demonstrate that solar energy is gaining traction in the business community.
“Given Malaysia’s mature ecosystem and abundant sunlight, the country indeed has enormous potential to further develop its solar photovoltaic (PV) industry to greater heights.
“While safeguarding our environment, we can look forward to exporting not only solar panels and system components, but also related skills and services to the region.
“As a result, it is critical that we continue to band together to develop and promote the solar industry in Malaysia, in line with the efforts of both the federal and state governments,” Chow said.
Chow also commended MPIA for its initiatives in organising an event like this to create public awareness of solar energy as one of the best sources of renewable energy.
“The efforts of MPIA through events like today’s Solar Roadshow 2022 are exemplary, and I hope that all participants will gain beneficial information and make the right decision to invest in green energy.
“Together, we can create a safer and greener environment for our future generations,” he said.
According to Chong, MPIA Solar Roadshow 2022 was supposed to be held last year but has to be postponed due to the general election.
Nevertheless, he said, they were happy that we could finally organise it this year. Penang also is the final destination to end this series of 2022 Solar Roadshows.
“This roadshow serves as a one-stop platform to provide information on policy, programme, tax incentive, financing, insurance coverage, risk and return of investment, solar leasing and power purchase agreement (PPA) on rooftop solar photovoltaic system investment.
“A total of 17 companies consisting of MPIA experts are taking part in the exhibition in Penang to showcase various aspects offered by solar technology for the eyes and knowledge of the people of Penang.
“This, in turn, helps to promote the awareness of the use of solar power, current programs and incentives offered, financing methods, and the latest technology and matters related to investment opportunities via the industry field experts in our midst,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Siew Chia En