NIBONG TEBAL – The newly installed photovoltaic (PV) system at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) engineering campus here can provide up to 45% of its electricity needs, according to deputy vice-chancellor Azlan Amran.
Azlan said the RM14 million solar power system covers 19 locations in the campus. Work on the project started on June 10 last year and was completed on December 19.
“This renewable energy initiative has a maximum capacity of 4.3 MWp (megawatt peak) and can meet up to 45% of our annual power consumption.
“The USM engineering campus is expected to reduce carbon dioxide pollution by as much as 97,000 tonnes over a 25-year period, in line with the Sustainability@USM concept,” he told reporters after the official launch of the project.
Azlan said the campus was expected to save up to 30% in its electricity bills by using power generated by the PV system.
The project was undertaken by its development and asset management department in collaboration with Sunway Engineering Sdn Bhd.
“Because of the high installation cost, USM decided to cooperate with industry players, and Sunway Engineering was appointed as the main contractor.
“While this PV system can help USM save on electricity charges, the sustainability aspect is also important because USM’s mission is to transform higher education for a sustainable future,” he said. – Bernama, February 8, 2023
