KUALA LUMPUR: Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) has targeted an annual solar energy production of 21,500MWh, allowing it to save a projected RM1.8 million in operational costs by 2027.
Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said it was one of IWK's steps towards sustainability.
This, he said, would be through the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) energy across its sewage treatment facilities.
"I am informed that solar energy is now used at approximately 396 treatment plant sites to power various equipment.
"The move to integrate solar PV energy aligns with Malaysia's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting renewable energy sources," he said at IWK's 30th anniversary celebrations.
Fadillah, who is also deputy prime minister, said IWK recorded approximately 2.97 billion cubic metres of wastewater treated annually with a linear economic treatment model.
"This is where the treated wastewater is released into rivers, while the resulting sludge is disposed of at landfill sites.
"However, since 2015, IWK has pioneered a circular economic model towards the reuse of sewage by-products as alternative water sources and new energy."
Fadillah added that one of the ongoing initiatives was the reuse of bio-solids as organic fertiliser.
"With approximately 80,000 tonnes of bio-solids produced each year, the company has already sought methods to reuse this valuable resource as a step forward towards sustainable bio-solid waste management.
"Reusing these bio-solids not only reduces waste disposal at landfill sites but also offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative compared to synthetic fertilisers," he said.
In conjunction with IWK's 30th anniversary, Fadillah extended his appreciation to staff for their good job in ensuring the comfort of all residents.
"I ask everyone to appreciate the sacrifices and dedication of IWK staff who often face dirty, difficult and dangerous situations.
"These are the unsung heroes, who are often forgotten because we do not see the behind-the-scenes work.
"However, without their commitment to ensuring that wastewater is treated efficiently, we certainly would not enjoy the comfort we have today."