THE Penang Energy Framework (PEF), a key initiative under Penang2030, has been officially launched to accelerate the state’s energy transition.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted that the PEF, spearheaded by state Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, aligns closely with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).
“At the national level, Malaysia aims to achieve 31% renewable energy by 2025, 40% by 2035, and an ambitious 70% by 2050.
“In Penang, we are targeting a 25% renewable energy share by 2030, demonstrating our leadership in sustainable energy initiatives.
“The state government is focused on making solar energy more accessible to households, businesses, and industries through programmes like Net Energy Metering (NEM) and Feed-In Tariffs (FiT),” Chow said during the opening ceremony of the Penang International Green Conference and Exhibition (PGIGCE 2024) at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre today.
The two-day PGIGCE 2024 event aims to foster a greener and more sustainable future by promoting innovative solutions and sustainable technologies that make a positive environmental impact, while inspiring attendees to engage in sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Chow addressed the pressing challenges posed by climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss, all of which threaten the quality of life.
“This urgency calls for transformative policies and actions to ensure resilience for future generations. PGIGCE serves as a critical platform to engage stakeholders across sectors,” he noted.
The event brings together more than 150 participants and 47 exhibitors from diverse sectors, including renewable energy, green finance, waste management, and sustainable construction.
Chow emphasised the significance of collaboration in these areas and expressed appreciation for the dedication of sponsors, particularly the Penang Green Council (PGC).
Chow also reaffirmed Penang’s steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability, noting that the state has surpassed a 50% recycling rate.
PGC general manager Josephine Tan underscored the event’s role in positioning Penang as a leader in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
“Creating a sustainable future is not merely a goal; it is a journey requiring collective effort,” Tan remarked, adding that PGIGCE serves as a platform to exchange innovative ideas.
Zairil also praised the unveiling of the PEF, reaffirming the state’s commitment to reducing energy consumption.
Among the distinguished attendees were Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Zaneco Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Ivan Chan, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis