TNB via its Penang Electricity Supply Strengthening Project will be building a transmission of 275kV overhead line as part of the development of the National Grid in line with the country’s energy transition needs.
President and Chief Executive Officer of TNB, Dato’ Indera Ir. Baharin Din said that the basic works are being carried out with the target of completion in August 2024 as well, and when completed will be able to supply 2,000MW thus guaranteeing the stability of supply in Penang in the long term. The components of the project worth more than RM500 million include the construction of an 8.5-kilometer overhead line with an iconic tower parallel to Penang’s first bridge, the Main Entrance Substation (PMU) in Perai to be connected to The Light PMU, which will be built near the Batu Uban Military Camp, then new 132kV underground cable 3.3km long to PMU Gelugor.
Currently, the island receives supply through SJ Gelugor and two undersea cables and one cable under the bridge that are 21 to 38 years old, so the maintenance cost is high and it has been damaged. “The direct delivery of this overhead line allows users and investors in Penang to enjoy a stronger, efficient and stable supply system, including in terms of the speed of detecting any damage or disruption,” explained Baharin.
This meets the needs of the state government and the people of Penang who need a strong energy supply to carry out physical development including the road network, public transport, increasing the capacity of ports and airports, in addition to land reclamation activities for settlement and commercial development. The project that was awaited by the Penang Government was launched on September 15.
He explained that the project received the approval of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and its implementation will not affect the seabed because TNB and the appointed contractor will comply with the requirements of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to preserve the environment.
