Sarawak Economic Development

Sep 6, 2023

Green Hydrogen in Sarawak: Bintulu Projects Set to Transform the Energy Sector In a significant stride towards establishing Sarawak as a key player in the global green energy arena, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg has unveiled ambitious plans for two major hydrogen production projects in Bintulu. These projects, named H2biscus and H2ornbill, are poised to become the cornerstones of Sarawak’s burgeoning green hydrogen economy and are expected to be operational in the Bintulu Petchem Industrial Park by 2027. The H2biscus project, a focal point of Sarawak’s green energy ambitions, is slated to produce an impressive 7,000 tonnes per annum of green hydrogen for domestic use. Additionally, it aims to generate 600,000 tonnes per annum of blue ammonia, 630,000 tonnes per annum of green ammonia, and 460,000 tonnes per annum of green methanol for export. The premier emphasized that Sarawak is eyeing Japan and Singapore as key export markets for these products, underlining the state’s commitment to international green energy trade. In an era of global cooperation towards sustainable energy solutions, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation’s subsidiary, SEDC Energy, is collaborating with three South Korean giants—Samsung Engineering, Posco, and Lotte Chemicals. Together, they are spearheading the development of a green hydrogen derivative facility as part of the H2biscus project. This partnership encompasses all aspects of the project, from direct investment to construction, transportation, and utilization. Additionally, SEDC Energy is forging partnerships with Japanese companies Sumitomo Corporation and Eneos for the H2ornbill project, aimed at scaling up green hydrogen production. These international collaborations highlight the global significance of Sarawak’s hydrogen endeavors. Premier Abang Johari Openg expressed his belief in the limitless potential of the hydrogen economy. Besides the monumental H2biscus and H2ornbill projects, SEDC Energy is actively developing a hydrogen production plant and refueling station to support the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project. The hydrogen production plant, located in Rembus, Kota Samarahan, is anticipated to be operational by 2025. KUTS, with an estimated cost of RM6 billion, will introduce a hydrogen-powered autonomous rapid transit (ART) system—a unique blend of train, bus, and tram. Phase 1 of KUTS ART will encompass the Samarahan and Serian lines, spanning a total of 53 kilometers across southern Sarawak. These groundbreaking initiatives underscore Sarawak’s commitment to pioneering sustainable and environmentally conscious energy solutions. The Bintulu projects, H2biscus and H2ornbill, represent not only a technological leap but also a promise for a greener, more sustainable future for the region and the world.