Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 4, Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra) has approved 13 large-scale solar projects with a combined capacity of 1,975 MW. The decision concludes the fifth round of the country’s large-scale solar (LSS) program, which opened for applications in January.

The round aimed to secure 2 GW of capacity and attracted 37 applications across two bid packages, totaling over 4 GW. Petra confirmed that the 13 selected bidders fulfilled all requirements set in the request for proposals. This round marks the largest single approval since the LSS scheme was launched in 2016. With the new projects included, the program has now reached 4,263 MW of approved large-scale solar capacity.

The ministry stated that the newly approved projects are expected to begin commercial operations in 2027 and 2028. Among them is a 200 MW floating solar array, which will rank among the largest of its kind in Malaysia. While further details on individual projects have not yet been disclosed, Petra emphasized that the projects will strengthen the country’s renewable energy development.

Malaysia’s solar power sector has been expanding steadily. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the nation’s cumulative installed solar capacity rose to 2,306 MW at the end of 2024, compared with 2,146 MW at the end of 2023. The government has set a target of achieving a 40% renewable energy share in its national energy mix by 2040, with solar expected to play a significant role in this transition.

In addition to government-backed initiatives, private sector players are also moving forward with large-scale solar developments. Last month, subsidiaries of Malaysian companies Gentari and Gamuda announced plans to jointly develop 1.5 GW of solar capacity integrated with battery energy storage systems. The projects are designed to supply electricity to hyperscale data centers operating in Malaysia, supporting both renewable energy goals and digital infrastructure growth.

The approval of nearly 2 GW of new solar capacity reflects Malaysia’s efforts to accelerate its energy transition and expand its renewable portfolio. The LSS program continues to be a central part of this strategy, helping the country to increase its solar generation capacity while encouraging private investment and technological innovation.

By advancing these projects, Malaysia is taking a step toward meeting its long-term renewable energy targets while addressing domestic electricity demand. The fifth bidding round highlights strong investor interest and demonstrates the role of large-scale solar in shaping the future of Malaysia’s power sector.