Two bills were passed by the Sabah assembly on 25 April 2024, enabling the state to harness ocean waves for future electricity generation.
According to Bernama, the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (Otec) Bill 2024 and the Sabah Energy Commission (Amendment No 2) Bill 2024 were both approved.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that the Otec Bill will facilitate the advancement of Otec as a renewable energy source, marking a significant step in the blue economy.
Additionally, he mentioned that the other bill empowers the Energy Commission of Sabah to oversee the exploration, construction, and operation of Otec facilities.
Describing Otec technology, Hajiji explained that it utilises the temperature contrast between warm surface water and cold deep-sea water to generate electricity in an eco-friendly manner.
He highlighted Sabah’s abundant marine resources and favourable conditions for Otec facility development, citing studies suggesting the potential to produce up to 20,000MW of electric power in various areas of the state.
Furthermore, he emphasised the possibility of utilising this power to produce green hydrogen, meeting the demand for zero carbon emissions energy sources.
The state also introduced Sabah Energy Commission (Amendment No 2) Bill 2024 with the aim to regulate the Otec industry, foster job creation and address the state’s energy requirements.
