Kuala lumpur: The combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant is expected to play a vital role in addressing gaps in the power grid and complementing solar intermittency, as Malaysia works towards achieving its net-zero goals by 2050, an expert said. Malaysia’s Grid System Operator chief engineer, Rofidah Mohamed, emphasized the importance of CCGT power plants in stabilizing the energy supply during periods when solar power generation is disrupted.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rofidah explained that Malaysia benefits from abundant sunlight, which reduces reliance on conventional generators during the day. However, she highlighted the challenge of maintaining energy supply when solar generation is disrupted by weather conditions. In such instances, the flexibility of CCGT power plants becomes crucial, allowing them to quickly ramp up power output and temporarily replace solar energy.
Rofidah noted that with the new gas turbine plant, power output can increase from zero to 100 percent within 30 minutes, making it particularly beneficial at night. She expressed optimism that CCGT power plants will continue to complement solar energy within the grid, helping Malaysia achieve its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. She also mentioned the gradual phasing out of coal in favor of gas, solar, and large hydro plants, particularly in regions like Terengganu and Kelantan.
The CGN Energy International Co Ltd (CGNEI) Gas Turbine Power Generation Conference 2025 was hosted by Edra Power Holdings Sdn Bhd in Kuala Lumpur, under the theme “Empowering the Future through Collective Wisdom and Win-Win Collaboration.” The event gathered over 200 key stakeholders from 47 organizations across China, Malaysia, and South Korea, aiming to foster industry collaboration and support a cleaner, more inclusive energy future for ASEAN.
The conference showcased CGNEI’s advancements in gas turbine power generation and aimed to strengthen industry consensus, promote technological innovation, and enhance international partnerships and talent development for the green and low-carbon energy transition. Edra chairman and president Jiang Xin expressed the company’s commitment to supporting Malaysia’s net-zero ambitions by attracting strategic investors and global expertise.
The event also saw the presence of the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, highlighting the significance of international collaboration in Malaysia’s energy transition efforts.