Penang is exploring an innovative solution to power its harbour with renewable energy, a floating solar farm large enough to supply electricity to 6,000 homes. This project aims to make Penang Port a greener choice for international cruise ships, which will be required to use renewable energy by 2030.
The proposed floating solar farm would cover 4 hectares in a calm area of Penang’s harbour, an area roughly the size of three World Cup football fields. On sunny days, the farm is expected to generate 30 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 6,000 homes.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to meet upcoming environmental standards. By 2030, cruise ships may be required to dock only at ports that offer renewable energy sources. Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) CEO Datuk Sasedharan Vasudevan noted that the floating solar farm could help meet these future requirements and support sustainable practices.
The solar panels will be installed on a floating platform, harnessing the sun’s energy over the water. This setup is ideal because the North Butterworth Container Terminal lacks land or rooftop space for traditional solar panels. The electricity generated could also power the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal and the ships docking there.
Preliminary studies and planning are underway, with an estimated RM50 million allocated for the project. The floating solar farm represents a significant step towards increasing the use of renewable energy at Penang’s port and improving its appeal to eco-conscious cruise lines.
This move aligns with global trends in reducing pollution, as large cruise ships are responsible for emissions equivalent to 20,000 cars.
