In a significant step toward enhancing renewable energy technologies, Smart EnerG Pte Ltd has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Nanotechnology & Catalysis Research Centre (NANOCAT) at Universiti Malaya. The partnership was formalized today in the Azalea meeting room at UM’s Institute for Advanced Studies in Kuala Lumpur.
The agreement, inked by Smart EnerG Director Victor Tan and NANOCAT’s Director, Professor Dr. Mohd Rafie Johan, along with Principal Investigator Associate Professor Ir Ts Dr Lai Chin Wei, centers on a pivotal project. This project aims to assess the impact of functionalized TiO2 nanocoating on photovoltaic (PV) panels, seeking to boost power output and slash maintenance costs for solar systems.
Malaysia’s Commitment to Solar Energy Amplifies
Amid accelerating climate change, Malaysia’s dedication to renewable energy gains momentum, particularly in solar power. Previously leading Southeast Asia in solar PV module production, Malaysia continues to play a substantial role globally, thanks to robust government support and burgeoning local and international investments.
By March 2023, renewables constituted 25% of Malaysia’s energy mix, surpassing the 2025 target of 20%. This growth is primarily driven by solar energy, leveraging Malaysia’s geographical advantage of abundant sunlight due to its equatorial location.
Government and Public Initiatives Propel Solar Adoption
A series of government initiatives, alongside decreasing solar panel costs and growing public awareness of solar benefits, have significantly reduced electricity bills and carbon footprints across Malaysia. These efforts are supported by the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which includes ambitious plans like establishing solar parks and installing substantial solar capacities annually through 2050.
A Milestone Collaboration for Future Solar Innovations
This industry-university collaboration not only aims to enhance solar panel efficiency through innovative nanocoating technologies but also marks a critical step in fostering sustainable energy solutions. “This MOA exchange ceremony signifies a meaningful milestone in our journey towards advancing green solar energy technologies,” stated Prof Mohd Rafie. He expressed enthusiasm for the expected academic and industry impacts of this venture.
Victor Tan of Smart EnerG highlighted the strategic nature of the collaboration: “Teaming up with Universiti Malaya allows us to tap into cutting-edge research and development to further our eco-friendly solutions.” He anticipates this partnership will set a new benchmark in the green technology sector.
As this collaboration progresses, both Smart EnerG and Universiti Malaya are committed to leveraging their combined expertise to develop impactful, sustainable energy solutions that will benefit both the environment and society.
