Rural electrification (RE) in Sarawak: towards achieving full statewide electricity coverage and post full coverage initiatives

This paper outlines the journey of Rural Electrification (RE) in Sarawak, a geographically challenging and sparsely populated region of Malaysia. The extensive RE effort began in 2009 when it was identified as one of the National Key Results Areas (NKRAs) to improve rural basic infrastructure under Malaysia's Government Transformation Programme [1]. In 2009, the rural electrification rate was 56% in rural areas and 73% statewide. Since then, it has grown to 99% and 99.6% respectively by 2024. During the 15 years of efforts, various initiatives have been undertaken, including: Construction of Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission substations and Medium Voltage MV) distribution substations at strategic rural locations; Application of the robust 33kV Medium Voltage Covered Conductor (MVCC) lines, mainly linking rural distribution substations; Last-Miles downstream grid extension to about 18,000 households in more than 800 villages; Standalone solar systems via the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES), providing free electricity to 15,000 households in 550 villages; 36 solar-diesel hybrid stations across the interior of Sarawak. As the grid and the road network improve, it is expected that many villages currently benefiting from off-grid systems will be connected to the grid for a more reliable and sustainable supply.