SABAH today saw the launch of the Ulu Padas Hydroelectric dam project, which is expected to contribute an additional 15% to the state’s electricity grid once completed sometime in 2027.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the project is part of the state’s long-term energy sustainability plan to increase the energy mix, aimed at addressing acute power shortage in the state.
The state has a 12% reserve margin at present, lower than the 20% to 30% reserve margin benchmark.
“This will not only fulfil our growing energy needs but is also crucial for the development of Sabah’s Oil and Gas and the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, thereby driving economic growth in our state.
“Additionally, a study is underway to assess the potential of the dam to supply clean and stable water to users, up to 6,000 million litres per day (MLD),” he said during the groundbreaking ceremony for the dam in Kampung Kungkular today.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the event by performing a symbolic ground-breaking.
Hajiji said the construction of the dam would bring various benefits to the local economy in terms of job opportunities and increases in incomes and businesses.
“The energy sector is a crucial driver and one of the largest contributors to Sabah’s economy for several decades,” he noted.
He added that the construction of the dam reflected the state government’s continued commitment towards resolving energy woes in the state detailed in the Sabah Energy Master Plan and Roadmap 2040 launched last September.
The hydroelectric dam is developed by Upper Padas Power Sdn Bhd.
The company was formed through collaboration between Sabah Energy Corporation Sdn Bhd, Gamuda Bhd, and Kerjaya Kagum Hitech JV Sdn Bhd.
It is understood that the project is valued around RM4 billion and would be able to generate 187.5MW of electricity once it starts operating three years from now. – The Vibes, December 7, 2023.
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