Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) has invited bids to develop 2 GW of large-scale solar (LSS) projects under phase V of its LSS PETRA+ program.

The capacity will be offered in two packages as follows:

• Package A is for developing 1.5 GW of ground-mounted solar projects with capacities ranging from 30 MW to 500 MW.
• Package B is for developing 500 MW of floating solar projects with capacities ranging from 10 MW to 500 MW.

The last day to submit the bids is February 28, 2025.

The bidding program is open to companies incorporated in Malaysia, with a minimum of 51% local equity ownership, or consortia consisting of at least one local company incorporated in Malaysia and other foreign/local companies, provided the local equity ownership in the consortium is at least 51%.

Bidders must have experience in commissioning power projects, including project financing and operation.

These projects are scheduled to commence operations in 2027.

Solar development capacity under the LSS PETRA+ program is expected to generate an investment of MYR8 billion (~$1.8 billion) and create 12,000 job opportunities within the renewable energy industry.

PETRA aims to increase the renewable energy capacity mix in the national electricity supply system to 70% by 2050 while supporting its commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of the national electricity supply sector.

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory report, floating solar could play a crucial role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ regional target of 35% renewable energy in the installed power capacity by 2025.

Malaysia demonstrated a higher potential for floating solar installations on reservoirs, estimated to be 23-54 GW, compared to natural water bodies, which have a potential of 13-30 GW. A separate study on six specific locations in Malaysia indicated that floating solar projects could generate approximately 14.5 GWh/year.