Overview
Merchang is a 50 MW operational solar PV facility located in Terengganu, Malaysia. It contributes to Malaysia's renewable energy capacity under the country's feed-in tariff and large-scale solar programs.
Merchang is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in the Terengganu region of Malaysia. With an installed capacity of 50 megawatts, it is a medium-to-large scale solar facility within Malaysia's growing renewable energy sector. The plant is operational and plays a role in diversifying the country's energy mix. Malaysia has set a target of 20% renewable energy capacity by 2025, supported by the Large Scale Solar (LSS) program and net energy metering schemes. The Merchang facility operates under these frameworks, benefiting from long-term power purchase agreements. Solar PV technology is well-suited to Malaysia's tropical climate, with high solar irradiation levels throughout the year. The plant contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supports Malaysia's commitment under the Paris Agreement. It also helps to stabilize the local grid by providing clean electricity during peak sunlight hours. The facility's location in Terengganu aligns with the region's focus on renewable energy development.
Environmental context
The facility is located in a coastal area of Terengganu, which experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high solar potential. Solar PV installations in such regions typically have low environmental impact, though land use for large arrays can affect local ecosystems. The site's proximity to the coast may require measures to mitigate salt spray corrosion. Overall, solar energy avoids air emissions and water consumption associated with fossil fuel plants.
Frequently asked questions
The Merchang solar PV plant is located in Terengganu, Malaysia, near the coast at coordinates 4.934° N, 103.336° E.
The Merchang solar facility has an installed capacity of 50 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-to-large scale solar plant in Malaysia.
The operator of the Merchang solar plant is not publicly listed, but it operates under Malaysia's Large Scale Solar (LSS) program, which involves independent power producers.
Malaysia supports solar PV through the Large Scale Solar (LSS) program, net energy metering (NEM), and feed-in tariffs. The country aims for 20% renewable energy capacity by 2025.
The Merchang plant adds 50 MW of clean energy to the grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting Malaysia's target of 20% renewable energy by 2025.