JUN 2023
Premier Visits Algae Nursery Site
KUCHING, 14 June 2023 – Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg today took a tour of the SEDC Energy and Petronas algae nursery site and was briefed on the facility’s operation that would open the way to harnessing the vast potential of the algae-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Sarawak.
During his visit, Premier Sarawak gained invaluable insights into the intricate components involved in cultivation of algae including the extraction of crude algae oil, which can be further refined into SAF, diesel, and naphtha. These premium-grade oils find extensive usage across various industries.
He also commended the collaborative efforts of SEDC Energy and Petronas in achieving success in producing the mentioned oils.
"I congratulate SEDC Energy and Petronas for their remarkable collaboration, which has resulted in the successful production of SAF, diesel and naphtha," he stated during the press conference held at the Algae Nursery Site in Demak Laut Industrial Park.
Furthermore, Premier Sarawak witnessed the use of resin in the formation of tanks, which play a crucial role in cultivating and mixing algae with seawater and carbon to accelerate algae growth. He emphasized that the tank production industry emerged from the algae industry itself, as without tanks, algae cultivation would not be possible.
"The tank becomes an essential element in the process of algae production. Hence, this industry creates the necessary space for tank production and utilization in algae extraction," he added.
Premier Sarawak revealed that SAF production is already underway in Sarawak, and SEDC Energy is planning a significant scale-up. Currently, the nursery covers only one acre, but in Bintulu, they plan to scale up to 1000 acres. This expansion will allow for the production of 500,000 tons, equivalent to 10,000 barrels per day. Moreover, plans are underway to establish a 10,000-acre facility in Bintulu, resulting in a staggering 100,000 barrels per day.
"With this expansion, we will not only produce SAF but also other oils such as diesel and naphtha. The rising global demand has led to an increase in naphtha prices. We have initiated naphtha production from Shell Middle Distillate Synthesis (MDS) in Bintulu," he explained.
Highlighting the supply chain in this industry, Premier Sarawak emphasized the significance of the various algae species. He noted that there are 600 strains of algae, and it is crucial to identify the appropriate species capable of producing the desired oils.
Premier Sarawak also highlighted the importance of the environment in which algae thrive, including the carbon emitted by humans.
"We are an integral part of the essential components in the oil extraction process, as we require the carbon emitted by humans. Thus, our involvement contributes to the foundation of this industry," he stated.
During the event, Premier Sarawak also witnessed the signing of the Heads of Agreement (HOA) between SEDC Energy and Resintech Plastics (Sarawak), further solidifying the collaborative efforts driving the growth of the algae-based sustainable aviation fuel industry.-Sarawakku
Sumber dari : Sarawakku