Sarawak Energy sets Batang Ai hydro plant shutdown for digitalisation upgrades

The upgrade will be implemented in three stages.

Sarawak Energy has announced the planned shutdown of the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Power Plant in Lubok Antu to upgrade its system and digitalise its generation infrastructure, with the first stage scheduled for 16 to 20 May.

In a statement, Sarawak said the automation projects “streamline the power plant’s system to enable effective management of power generation and water resources.”

The second stage of the planned shutdown will be from 4 to 13 June, whilst the third stage is scheduled for 27 June.

Sarawak also noted that there will be minimum or no water discharge from the power plant which may result in low water levels downstream of the power plant.

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“The water treatment facility operated by the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) nearby has confirmed that the current raw water intake remains adequate, and the likelihood of any water supply disruptions is low. Mitigation measures are in place, including the use of a diesel-powered pump to extract water from the Batang Ai HEP’s reservoir for downstream supply if required,” the company said

Sarawak Energy added that four tributaries flowing along the river from the plant towards the water treatment plant will help ensure adequate water flow.