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Biochar has the potential of becoming a power generation material, provided that certain conditions are met. – Photo from Wikimedia Commons

KUCHING (Oct 6): Sarawak is exploring into the production of biochar from palm oil residues as a new material expected to become a significant part of the state’s sustainable power mix.

According to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, biochar is highlighted as a key element in the state’s long-term energy strategy, alongside hydrogen and solar power.

He also revealed that the state was looking into converting biomass, sourced from materials like palm oil waste, into high-quality biochar for electricity generation.

He added that efforts of leveraging this resource were already underway in areas like Lubok Antu.

“After solar, then hydrogen – the third is biomass.

“This biomass is like wood materials and so on that can be converted as an energy base.

“I went to Lubok Antu, where we are trying to use palm oil waste to produce biomass, and that biomass can be converted into biochar,” said the Premier at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Batang Ai hydroelectricity plant at Batang Ai Operator Residence in Sri Aman, near here today.

Abang Johari, also the state Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, further said that biochar had the potential of becoming a power generation material, provided that certain conditions could be met.

“We convert it into biochar, and this biochar can be a material for producing power, provided that its calorific value is high.

“This requires research,” he pointed out.

Abang Johari also described this focus on biomass and biochar as aligning with the global demands for green energy solutions.

“This means that in the future, this is the kind of energy that is renewable; sustainable energy that doesn’t harm the environment, being used globally due to climate conditions.”

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