KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 7): The Sarawak government has appointed local utility company Sarawak Energy Bhd to conduct a feasibility study on the commercial and public application of hydrogen and fuel cell technology in the state.

In a statement today, the state government said it is also setting up a research council to oversee research into various sectors including energy-related technologies such as alternative energy potential, electric vehicles, and hydrogen and fuel cell research.

The state’s effort is in line with its aspiration to transform the public transportation sector with clean and green technologies, with hydrogen being the primary fuel of choice for areas such as the transportation sector and energy storage.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang  Johari Tun Openg said reduced reliance on fossil fuel and lower carbon footprint will allow for modern and efficient public transportation, with minimal impact on the environment.

“As Sarawak pursues sustainable development to achieve high-income status by 2030, technological innovation will play a major role in realising this vision,” he added.

Hydrogen and fuel cells technology, which results in water as the only by-product in the process of producing electricity, can be a critical element in helping to realise Malaysia’s ambitious target and commitment towards reducing carbon dioxide emission intensity by 45% by 2030, he said.

“Sarawak Energy’s research in hydrogen and fuel cells shall form an integral part of the government’s new emphasis to develop the state leveraging on research and development towards reaching the Vision 2030 goals,” said Abang Johari.

He believes that Sarawak provides an ideal setting for enabling the hydrogen economy, thanks to the abundant clean hydroelectric power resources in the state.

The outcome of the feasibility study will guide Sarawak on the application of hydrogen and fuel cells in the state, and possibly opening up potential opportunities for the state to export to global markets, he added.