Tanjung Bin Power Plant in Malaysia. (Photo: Malakoff Corporation)
Malakoff Corporation, a Malaysian energy group, has recently launched its biomass co-firing project at its 2,100 MW coal-fired Tanjung Bin Power Plant (TBPP) in Pontian, Johor. It aims to co-fire up to 15% biomass with coal by 2027.
This initiative, a key project of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), shows Malakoff’s commitment to assisting Malaysia’s target of reducing carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and increasing the renewables capacity mix from 40% to 70% by 2050.
After accomplishing a trial run with up to 0.5% biomass co-firing in December 2022, the company has completed the construction and commissioning of its 2% biomass co-firing installation in the first quarter of 2024, with the plan to rise from 3% to 5% in 2025, reaching a target capacity of at least 15% by 2027.
The implementation of a 15% biomass co-firing initiative alongside coal is anticipated to substantially reduce carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to planting approximately 141 millions mature trees.
This move aligns with Malaysia’s commitment to a fair energy transition, striving for a greener economy with inclusive opportunities, employment, and addressing the Energy Trilemma of security, sustainability, and affordability. Malakoff is actively exploring advanced Japanese and European technologies for biomass co-firing and handling equipment to maximize efficiency during commercial deployment.
(Image: Malakoff Corporation)
Innovations like "smart silo systems" for storing various biomass fuels and the use of torrefied pellets are being considered to streamline operations.
Anwar Syahrin, the group chief executive officer, highlighted these advancements as potential means to reduce reliance on coal firing, showcasing Malakoff’s dedication to adopting sustainable energy solutions.
He emphasized the importance of sustaining Malaysia's economic growth and ensuring energy security, particularly with Malakoff's significant share of Peninsular Malaysia's generation capacity. Malakoff aims to transition to renewables and neutralize its carbon footprint, in line with the industry's growing focus on sustainability and ESG principles, with a particular focus on increasing biomass co-firing capacity in its thermal business.
By continually assessing alternative biomass fuels, Malakoff targets achieving a minimum of 15% co-firing readiness by 2027. Despite this shift, ensuring the operational reliability of its plants remains a priority, achieved through meticulous due diligence and planned maintenance outages.
Earlier this year, Malakoff conducted a comprehensive workshop on bioenergy and biomass co-firing in coal power plants for its operations, maintenance, and engineering teams. This workshop aimed to enhance awareness among plant operators, ensuring smooth operations and equipping them with the necessary knowledge to address potential hazards associated with biomass fuel handling and storage.
Source: The Malaysian Reserve, The Edge
