The UiTM Solar Research Institute and RVS College of Engineering and Technology Work on an Inbound-Outbound Programme

The Solar Research Institute (SRI), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia, Shah Alam, organised the SRIRVSCET Inbound-Outbound programme in collaboration with RVS College of Engineering and Technology (RVSCET). This programme was conducted virtually to share solar energy recent advancements. In his speech titled “Solar Power Future: Technologies, Opportunities and Challenges”, Dr Sudhakar Kumarasamy from Universiti Malaysia Pahang discussed technical, economic, environmental and storage issues and how these issues can be studied in future research solar energy restoration. Following that was a presentation titled “Photovoltaic Cooling and Thermoelectric for Solar Thermal Applications” by Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Baljit Singh from SRI, UiTM. Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Baljit Singh also presented on several novel photovoltaic cooling applications, as well as solar thermal power generation using thermoelectric generators. Both speakers emphasised the importance of solar energy in mitigating climate change as well as the benefits of solar energy in generating sustainable power. The programme attracted 74 participants from both institutions, including researchers, lecturers, and students. This programme provides students the opportunity to practise effective communication skills by presenting their work. This virtual programme witnesses a successful knowledge sharing session which hopes to translate and to increase on the criticality of solar energy.

https://qs-gen.com/uitms-solar-research-institute-collaborates-with-rvs-college-of-engineering-technology-for-inbound-outbound-programme/

The Element of Integrated Design Project towards Fulfilling the 21st Century Skills Set and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

The Integrated Design Project (IDP) is a course that is based on a teamwork-based project which necessitates students to deploy the intellectual experience that has been learned in the earlier semesters of the programme. With the vital need to prepare the graduates for 21st century skill sets, the IDP needs to be aligned with the 21st century skills set and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). This study focuses on the sufficiency of IDP at UiTM in developing graduate attributes for the 21st century and aligned with the needs of SDG. The observation is conducted based on IDP courses at the School of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/10264046

Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Malaysian Public Universities through Building Information Modelling (BIM)

It is imperative for these institutions to initiate energysaving programmes by harnessing the capabilities of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology. to secure a sustainable energy. Evaluating the lighting performance in pre-retrofitting stages is crucial to ensuring effective energy saving in universities. Therefore, this study investigates the energy performance of existing university buildings by employing BIM technology to enhance the energy efficiency leading to energy conservation. This can be achieved by carefully assessing the energy consumption of various appliances within the building, specifically emphasising lighting. This study identifies the strengths and weaknesses of implementing BIM in the energy performance improvement process. The findings will determine BIM’s potential in enhancing energy efficiency in existing university buildings, providing valuable insights that can guide the maintenance departments in universities to monitor their work more accurately through digital applications, leading to more precise energy management. By attaining improved energy performance, the university building will simultaneously reduce costs, increase its value, and promote a more sustainable and productive environment for campus users.

http://www.jised.com/PDF/JISED-2021-36-05-72.pdf

Green Energy Converter to Optimise Teaching and Learning in Energy Science

As the knowledge of energy conservation becomes more critical, an energy converter was developed for students to understand kinetic energy conversion to electricity. This conversion witnesses the kinetic energy being stored in two forms of storage apparatus. The first type is synchronous flywheels which operates within the allowable range of the synchronous frequency. The second type is asynchronous flywheels in which its rotational speed is independent from the system synchronous frequency and varies over a wide range and this feature gives the asynchronous flywheel the ability to store and release a significant amount of kinetic energy. The outcomes from this study displayed successful performance which is dynamo that acts as a generator for the converter to convert kinetic energy into the electrical energy to charge electrical gadgets.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/13720/

UiTM Made its Name with Two Large Photovoltaic Plants Supported by UiTM SRI

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) has built a reputation in Malaysia as the only university to own and operate two large-scale photovoltaic power plants (LSSPV) with a total renewable energy capacity of 75MWac (92.58MWp.). The second LSSPV plant in Pasir Gudang, Johor, had begun commercial operations. A 66MW rooftop solar power generation system development plan is planned to be fully commercialised by the end of 2022. With increased production capacity from two LSSPV plants, UiTM is currently on the right track as other prestigious universities, such as the University of California, Stanford University and the University of Queensland that own and operate power plants. UiTM Solar Research Institute (SRI) is a centre of excellence dedicated to strengthening the research on renewable energy such as solar energy systems to develop new technologies, especially in the field of power systems. The establishment of this centre of excellence intends to enhance the pragmatic research activities as well as providing expert advice through training and consulting/commercialisation related to the solar energy system, which can benefit from the development and operation of the UiTM Solar Power Station in Gambang, Pahang (LSSPV Gambang). The station is fully operational on 5th April 2019 to provide electricity to the TNB National Grid System. This centre of excellence focuses on several main areas that have been identified in line with the key priorities of the energy industry such as those at the ASEAN Centre of Energy (ACE). Notably, the Southeast Asia (S.E.Asia) regional energy strategy consolidation project (including Malaysia) is an initiative undertaken by ACE under the Asean Power Grid (APG) programme. The establishment of this centre of excellence is also in line with the direction of the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE), Malaysia to leverage the university’s expertise that will be useful and benefit the community and industry.

Energy Justice in Rural Electrification: A Case Study of Rumah Panjang Tungan Batang Rajang, Kapit Sarawak

A research team from the Solar Research Institute (SRI), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) led by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Nofri Yenita Dahlan has partnered with researchers from the University of Leeds and University of Sussex, United Kingdom to conduct a research project titled “Facilitating a Just, Fair, and Affordable Energy Transition in the Asia- Pacific”. A total grant of GBP 108,397.00 (~RM 650,000.00) was awarded by the British Academy under the Just Transition to Decarbonisation in the Asia-Pacific Programme 2021. The study aims to explore novel models for a just and equitable transition to renewable energy systems in the Asia-Pacific.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/72316/

The Benefits of LCC Implementation for the Shah Alam Community

Low Carbon City (LCC) is a city that comprises societies that consume sustainable green technology, green practices, and emit relatively low carbon or greenhouse gases (GHG). The concept of LCC is closely related to the sustainable development of a city. The adoption of sustainability principles permits carbon emissions to be reduced significantly through the means and ways in which cities are designed and developed, and the ways resources are consumed. The main objective of this study is to determine the factors in implementing the LCC programmes and the benefits that the community could potentially gain from the programme. Data from three officials who directly manage the LCC programs reveal that the factors that contribute to the implementation of LCC are measured through three main areas: 1) environment; 2) transportation; and 3) infrastructure. In contrast, the benefits are identified in terms of economy, social and health. This study provides insight into the importance of having a Low Carbon City programme in Shah Alam while also indirectly raising the community’s awareness and ensuring their acceptance of the LCC programme.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/78304/

Empowering Future Generation with Renewable Solar Energy: A Conceptual Paper

The government announcement of 100% elimination of taxes on electronic vehicles in Malaysia is aligned with the 12th Malaysian Plan in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This new policy was formulated to accelerate the development of the Electronic Vehicle (EV) industry. Currently, Malaysia is still way behind its regional peers when it comes to the infrastructure of the EV industry in which available EV charging stations are still solely dependent on electricity. Malaysia is highly dependent on traditional electricity which relies heavily on fossil fuels. Understanding the potential of solar renewable energy in the EV industry in Malaysia. This study aims to broaden the usage of renewable energy in Malaysia to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and also to enhance the usage of electric vehicles in Malaysia by 2050. The study proposes that the success of the renewable solar energy programme would be highly dependent on the collaboration of the government, private solar companies and the major supplier of electricity. The significance of the research to society and government is that it provides a comprehensive framework that would enable the development of accessible infrastructure of EV charging ports near residential areas or at the local gas station. An accessible charging port may ease market acceptance of the usage of electric vehicles. The increase in EV usage would reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and in the long run would protect the environment. The development of solar renewable energy should remain a key component in the economic development of Malaysia. In time, the usage of EVs will be in mass and the country needs to have the best infrastructure to support the growth of the industry.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/77973/

Advancing Green Initiatives in Malaysian Universities: A Case Study of Implementing a Green Campus at UiTM Perak

Green initiatives have gained global prominence, with a shared commitment to environmental sustainability. The Sustainable Development Goals serve as a guiding framework for this endeavour, and the Malaysian government, in its pursuit of economic acceleration and sustainable development, introduced the Green Technology Policy in July 2009. Notably, green technology has been integrated into Malaysian universities through various initiatives aimed at achieving green campus status, as measured by the UI Green Metric. Numerous universities in Malaysia have undertaken comprehensive efforts to address the challenges of adopting green practices, including UiTM Perak. This research has established two primary objectives: (1) identifying the challenges faced in implementing a green campus at UiTM Perak, and (2) proposing solutions to surmount these challenges. Interviews with the Green Campus committee at UiTM Perak identified that while UiTM Perak has implemented several green initiatives, certain challenges persist, including financial limitations and lack of awareness and knowledge. To address these challenges, UiTM Perak’s management has outlined various necessary steps. In conclusion, green campus initiatives can offer manifold benefits for a sustainable environment at UiTM Perak and the realisation of this vision necessitates a collaborative effort from all stakeholders involved.

https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/73799/

Implementation of Energy Conservation Project by UiTM Cawangan Pahang

The Malaysian Prime Minister’s Movement Control Order (MCO) in 2020 led to the closure of educational institutions, prompting the University Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang (UCPh) to launch an energy conservation project. UCPh effectively reduced energy consumption by 44.49% in 2020, saving significant costs and achieving recognition for their efforts. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 7 and 11, focusing on affordable, sustainable energy access and improving infrastructure while reducing environmental impact. UCPh’s measures include staff awareness of energy conservation, behavioral changes, and the transition to LED lighting and solar energy, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and responsible energy management.

https://qs-gen.com/uitm-cawangan-pahang-carry-out-energy-conservation-project/

Shah Alam Low Carbon City Action Plan 2035

Shah Alam Low Carbon City Action Plan 2035 was conceptualise by the Solar Research Institute (SRI) led by Dr Yusfida Ayu Abdullah. This plan aligns with Malaysia’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reflects Shah Alam’s dedication to contributing to the national low-carbon agenda. The goal of the Shah Alam Low Carbon City Action Plan (SALCCAP) 2017-2030 is to guide Shah Alam in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 45 percent by 2030, relative to the 2015 baseline. A crucial component of achieving this target is Strategy 2: Building and Clean Energy, which is in line with Sustainable Development Goal 7 for Affordable and Clean Energy. This initiative adheres to various national standards and policies, emphasising the necessity for clean and low-carbon energy to mitigate climate change risks. The project involves collaboration with building owners in Shah Alam, initiates discussions with Focus Group Discussions (FGD), including the local city council, universities, businesses, and governmental organisations. Notably, the Shah Alam Low Carbon City Action Plan 2035 was officially published on October 21, 2021, making Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA) the first Malaysian local authority to release a comprehensive low-carbon city action plan that aligns with the national agenda for sustainability.

Solar Energy in Malaysia: Current State and Prospects

Malaysia is situated in the equatorial region with an average solar radiation of 400–600 MJ/m2 per month. It has a promising potential to establish large-scale solar power installations. However, solar energy is still in the infancy stage due to the high cost of photovoltaic (PV) cells and the solar electricity tariff rate. The Malaysian government is keen to develop solar energy as a significant source of energy in the country. According to the 9th Malaysia Plan (9MP), a large allocation has been dedicated to the implementation of solar PV systems. On 25 July 2005, a Malaysian Building Integrated Photovoltaic (MBIPV) project was announced and it was planned to end by 2010. The project consists of three categories which include: BIPV demonstration, national “SURIA1000” and BIPV showcase. Greater emphasis will be placed on energy efficiency under the Tenth Malaysia Plan (2011–2015). This paper discusses the present and future situation of solar power in Malaysia, the utilisation of solar energy and strategies taken by the Malaysian government and Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) to promote solar energy thermal applications and electricity power generation in the future.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364032111004138

Air-Conditioning Energy Consumption of an Education Building and Energy Index: A Case Study in Engineering Complex UiTM Shah Alam

The high energy consumption in buildings can potentially be attributed to the use of air conditioning systems. Hence, it is necessary to measure and study its energy efficiency to reduce energy consumption in buildings. This paper presents the Air Conditioning energy consumption of an education building and its Building Energy Index at Engineering Complex formerly Science and Technology (S&T) Complex building, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam Selangor. This study describes the result of user attitudes towards air conditioning usage, electric energy consumption pattern and building energy index in building. The results of the site survey show that the operation of the air conditioning system was unsatisfactory. The air conditioning energy consumption can be reduced by several proposed measures such as improving user attitude towards using air conditioning through awareness and technical improvement.

UiTM Low Carbon Challenge (LLC) 2030

The establishment of UiTM Green Centre (UGC) has prompted the implementation of many green initiatives. UiTM is committed to execute the low carbon cities framework programme focusing on five (5) GHG reduction elements which are: energy, mobility, waste, water; and greenery and water bodies. UiTM carbon commitment is to reduce 45 percent emission intensity by 2030 from the baseline year 2015. A carbon management plan is underway to enable UiTM to be Malaysia’s best Low Carbon Public University Model by 2030, while also striving for carbon-neutrality. Section 1 where the main campus of UiTM is located and Five UiTM buildings were the diamond recipients of Low Carbon Emissions Challenge 2030. The first building which won this challenge is the Chancellery Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Building. The second and third buildings are the Complex Engineering Building and Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying Building, respectively. The Faculty of Computer, Mathematics and Sciences Building was also a winner in this challenge. The final diamond recipient in this challenge is UiTM Health Centre. Thus, this challenge was declared a success as there is a gradual increase in awareness towards green initiatives.

https://ugc.uitm.edu.my/index.php/strategic-focus