BINTULU: Sarawak is exploring new solar panel technology that could generate power for up to 12 hours without fully relying on battery storage systems.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the proposal was raised in discussions with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and its engineering team, who are exploring new approaches in energy materials research.
He said the idea focuses on developing hybrid materials using silica and silicon sourced locally, which could potentially extend solar energy generation beyond current limitations.
“Now solar panels can only last about four hours. After that, it is supported by BESS batteries,” he said during a press conference after the Sarawakku Sayang programme at the Bintulu Old Airport here today (May 23).
Abang Johari said the research direction involves studying how different materials can be combined to improve energy performance and efficiency, particularly through advanced materials science.
He said the concept may require deeper exploration in metallurgy to better understand the properties of silica sand and its potential integration with other elements.
“This could become a new technology that can outperform the market,” he said, adding that such developments may reshape how energy systems are designed and operated in the future.
The Premier said the idea draws parallels with advancements in computing systems, where supercomputers now operate in real time based on high-speed data processing.
He said similar principles could potentially be applied to energy storage and generation systems in the future, allowing for more efficient and responsive energy delivery.
He said the UKM research team has welcomed the proposal as a challenge and is expected to explore further collaboration with Sarawak in energy-related innovation and advanced materials development.
He added that the initiative reflects Sarawak’s broader direction in exploring next-generation technologies that combine energy, materials science and industrial applications.
The Premier said the state is also strengthening its focus on semiconductor development, which is closely linked to advanced materials and emerging high-tech industries.
He said Bintulu and Samalaju are central to this transformation, particularly as industrial activities continue to expand in the area.
Abang Johari added that Sarawak’s long-term development strategy emphasises innovation-driven growth, where research, technology and industry work together to support a modern economy.
He said the idea focuses on developing hybrid materials using silica and silicon sourced locally, which could potentially extend solar energy generation beyond current limitations.
“Now solar panels can only last about four hours. After that, it is supported by BESS batteries,” he said during a press conference after the Sarawakku Sayang programme at the Bintulu Old Airport here today (May 23).
Abang Johari said the research direction involves studying how different materials can be combined to improve energy performance and efficiency, particularly through advanced materials science.
He said the concept may require deeper exploration in metallurgy to better understand the properties of silica sand and its potential integration with other elements.
“This could become a new technology that can outperform the market,” he said, adding that such developments may reshape how energy systems are designed and operated in the future.
The Premier said the idea draws parallels with advancements in computing systems, where supercomputers now operate in real time based on high-speed data processing.
He said similar principles could potentially be applied to energy storage and generation systems in the future, allowing for more efficient and responsive energy delivery.
He said the UKM research team has welcomed the proposal as a challenge and is expected to explore further collaboration with Sarawak in energy-related innovation and advanced materials development.
He added that the initiative reflects Sarawak’s broader direction in exploring next-generation technologies that combine energy, materials science and industrial applications.
The Premier said the state is also strengthening its focus on semiconductor development, which is closely linked to advanced materials and emerging high-tech industries.
He said Bintulu and Samalaju are central to this transformation, particularly as industrial activities continue to expand in the area.
Abang Johari added that Sarawak’s long-term development strategy emphasises innovation-driven growth, where research, technology and industry work together to support a modern economy.