A group of developers and state-run agencies recently revealed their plans to establish a 10-GW green hydrogen hub in Sabah, Malaysia, located on the northern tip of Borneo. The leading property developer, LBS Bina Group, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with various partners to bring this project to life.
The consortium, consisting of LBS Bina Group, government-backed Invest Sabah Berhad, Sabah Forestry Development Authority (Safoda), and lighting supplier Midwest Green Sdn Bhd, aims to align the project with national and state sustainability objectives. The proposed site for the hub is set to span between 15,000 to 30,000 acres in the Kota Marudu district, with plans for an electrolyzer facility that can produce 250,000 tonnes of hydrogen annually and a potential industrial park.
Tan Sri Lim Hock San, the executive chairman of LBS Group, emphasized the significant renewable energy potential in Kota Marudu and highlighted the project’s role in driving economic growth and creating job opportunities for the local community. The partnership will involve conducting land surveys and site inspections to determine the best locations for the hub, focusing on utilizing solar and wind energy to power the green hydrogen production facility and industrial park.
Given Kota Marudu’s high solar irradiance levels and consistent wind speeds, the region is well-suited for renewable energy projects. The site’s proximity to shipping ports further enhances its appeal as a regional green energy hub. Hock San expressed the consortium’s dedication to sustainable development and Malaysia’s green energy agenda, noting the collaboration with partners like Invest Sabah, Safoda, and Midwest Green as crucial for driving sustainable growth and innovation.
Moving forward, the parties involved will continue to work together to identify optimal sites, establish a consortium structure, and engage with local and international stakeholders interested in the project. The MOU signifies a significant step towards positioning Sabah as a key player in the renewable energy sector, offering opportunities for future collaborations and advancements in green energy technology.