The implementation of the Project Sustainable Integration of Natural and Renewable Energy (Project SINAR) is poised to bolster Brunei’s shift towards a cleaner energy landscape while significantly reducing carbon emissions.
This initiative, which will be rolled out in three stages, was announced by the Chairman of Zhejiang Hengyi Group Co Ltd Qiu Jianlin at the launch ceremony held on Wednesday at the main office building in Pulau Muara Besar (PMB) Industrial Park.
As the first phase, Stage 1 will see the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on building rooftops, car sheds, and open areas throughout PMB.
Following this, Stage 2 will expand these installations to cover PMB’s artificial lake, coastline, and additional open spaces, while Stage 3 will further utilise the jetties and shallow sea areas around PMB.
Qiu underscored that Project SINAR represents not only a pivotal initiative for Hengyi in renewable energy but also a substantial contribution to sustainable energy development in Brunei.
“In addition, I am pleased to announce the release of Hengyi’s 2023 ESG Report. This report highlights the progress we have made in the areas of environment, social responsibility, and governance.
“Moving forward, we will continue to improve our ESG performance and remain committed to supporting the country’s sustainability goals,” he stated.
Hengyi Industries is dedicated to collaborating with the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to realise the objectives of Wawasan 2035, promoting balanced economic and environmental growth.
Qiu expressed confidence that Project SINAR will act as a new driving force for sustainable development, delivering long-term benefits for both the company and the nation.
The launch ceremony was attended by the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (R) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Yussof, and Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew Bin Abdullah as the guests of honour.
Following Mr Qiu Jianlin’s speech, Project SINAR was officially launched, accompanied by a video presentation that provided an in-depth look at the project’s objectives.
In conjunction with the launch, Hengyi Industries also distributed its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report 2023, showcasing key achievements in environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance throughout the year.
Project SINAR highlights Hengyi Industries’ dedication to sustainability, starting with its pilot stage.
Initial analysis shows that Pulau Muara Besar (PMB) is ideal for solar power generation due to its abundant solar irradiance, earning it a grade A rating for Solar Energy Resources Richness.
Stage 1 is projected to generate up to 48 megawatts peak (MWp). The project aligns with Brunei’s renewable energy goals, targeting a 30 per cent share of renewables and at least 200 MWp solar capacity by 2025.
Additionally, Project SINAR supports the Brunei Climate Change Secretariat’s efforts to increase renewable energy adoption and cut carbon emissions. The solar energy generated will power Hengyi’s refinery and contribute to the national grid when needed, enhancing energy sustainability.
Ultimately, the project aims to produce up to 476 MWp, strengthening Hengyi’s role in fostering a sustainable future for Brunei.
Among the other attendees at the launching ceremony were Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin Bin Hj Abd Rahman; Attorney General Datin Seri Paduka Dayang Hajah Nor Hashimah bte Haji Mohammed Taib; Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Khairuddin Bin Haji Abdul Hamid; and Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Zety Sufina Binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani.
The event was also attended by Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries from various ministries, along with members of the Hangzhou Municipal Committee of The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and other invited guests.