KUALA LUMPUR: The two-day Energy Transition Conference (ETC) 2023, on August 28 and 29, is expected to provide actionable insights into the digitalisation, technologies, capabilities and policies necessary for the energy transition in the region while supporting Malaysia's goal to be a low-carbon nation by 2050.
Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) president and chief executive officer (ceo), Datuk Baharin Din, said the conference would encourage dialogue and partnerships among different sectors such as energy, transportation, industry, and agriculture to foster integrated and holistic approaches to sustainable practices.
"It will also provide a platform for entrepreneurs, researchers, and technology developers to present their cutting-edge technologies, products, and services," he told Bernama in an interview recently.
Recognising the importance of policy frameworks in promoting sustainable practices and energy transition, he said the conference allows policymakers and industry players to discuss and debate policy options, regulatory frameworks, and incentive mechanisms.
Powered by TNB, the conference themed 'Accelerating a Responsible Energy Transition' will be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and attended by more than 1,500 delegates, 60 speakers, and 30 exhibitors.
Marking a milestone, ETC 2023 will be making history as the first conference in Malaysia to be wholly powered by green energy under the Renewable Energy Certification (REC).
Baharin said TNB actively champions sustainability, including promoting the Green Electricity Tariff (GET) Programme.
"As a critical player in Malaysia with a portfolio extending across power generation, grid and retail, our commitment to a decarbonisation plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions intensity by 2050 is key in the energy transition journey for Malaysia," he said.
The TNB CEO added that TNB intends to raise awareness and foster the community's understanding of the benefits of energy transition (ET) by increasing the public's commitment to empowering the agenda.
"This conference lays a platform to deliberate on the challenges of protecting the earth while creating economic, social and environmental balance," he said.
Thus, Baharin said TNB had chosen four areas to discuss during the conference, namely the future of energy; sustainable cities; green mobility (transportation) and digitalisation, which were the backbone of responsible ET implementation.
Besides that, he said TNB seeks collaborative solutions and jointly defines industry strategies by collaborating closely with the ministries and Energy Commission.
"Our significant commitment of RM15 billion in repowering our gas plants in Kapar, Selangor and Paka, Terengganu with hydrogen technology underscores our commitment to cutting-edge innovations," he said.
As a testament to its commitment, Baharin said TNB is investing RM10 billion in the development of hydropower projects and an additional RM2 billion in floating solar initiatives.
In order to accelerate ET, Baharin said a community energy storage system is crucial to allow more Renewable Energy (RE) penetration and stability in the network, electrify more Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations to accommodate a higher adoption rate and review related guidelines and policies to enable more visibility and improve technical issues on RE installation.
"By working together, we can leverage our collective strengths to accelerate the deployment of renewable technologies, develop innovative energy storage solutions, and enhance energy efficiency practices," he added.
The ETC 2023 is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. – Bernama