TNB says ASEAN’s green energy ambitions require clear business models and committed buyers to ensure cross-border power projects are financially sustainable.
KUALA LUMPUR: The ambitious ASEAN Power Grid initiative must be underpinned by commercial viability to translate regional ambitions into execution.
Tenaga Nasional Bhd chief grid officer Hasmarizal Hassan said cross-border clean electricity trade requires not only physical interconnections but also clarity in business structures and regulatory alignment.
He was speaking on a panel titled “Connected by Clean Power: ASEAN’s Green Growth Opportunity” at a recent British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce forum.
“Clear business models, supported by committed offtakers, are essential to ensure that cross-border interconnections are commercially viable,” TNB said in a social media post quoting Hasmarizal.
This provides clarity on cost recovery, risk sharing, and long-term demand certainty.
He added that regulatory frameworks across member countries are also critical for enabling reliable cross-border power flows.
The APG aims to establish a sustainable, integrated energy network by 2045.
Eight of the ten ASEAN members have set net-zero targets.
TNB has been actively contributing to the APG through several cross-border connectivity projects.
These include the Vietnam–Malaysia–Singapore, Malaysia–Indonesia, and Malaysia–Sarawak interconnections.
A milestone was reached three years ago with renewable energy transmission to Singapore from Laos via Thailand and Malaysia.
According to the United Nations, the long-term value of the APG lies in its ability to deliver benefits beyond the energy sector.
New transmission corridors can bring development opportunities, especially for rural areas.
They can improve access to markets, education, and healthcare while supporting local economic growth.
Adding 30 gigawatts of solar and wind capacity could create around 182,000 jobs.
These jobs would be in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
Looking ahead, Hasmarizal said TNB remains focused on strengthening grid capabilities.
This will support the region’s move towards a cleaner, more connected, and resilient energy future.