The government of Malaysia has granted China-based global solar PV leader, Risen Energy Co Ltd the approval for manufacturer’s license with a total investment of MYR 42.2 billion (USD 10 billion) for the design, development, and production of solar cells and modules in the country. This signals Risen Energy’s first production hub in the South East Asia region.
The agreement was awarded to its local unit, Risen Solar Technology Sdn Bhd to build a new 3 GW manufacturing facility in Kulim Hi-Tech Park of Kedah, the Northern state of Malaysia. Risen Solar is anticipated to complete the construction in December 2021, while the commercial activities will start during the first quarter of 2022.
Risen’s investment is expected to create 3,000 employments locally over a 15-year period until 2035. Risen Energy is further anticipated to establish research and development (R&D) activities and offer internship opportunities with local universities and institutions. The manufacturer’s license will also provide Risen Energy access to financial incentives under the National Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA).
In addition, the company plans to increase its production capacity and utilize Malaysia’s strategic location for wider distribution access in the region. Chairman of the Board and President of Risen Energy Xie Jian noted that Malaysia was selected due to its rich raw materials, high-quality human resources, harmonious ethnic relations, and robust support from the state and local governments.
It has previously supplied 20 MW of 500 W modules to Tokai Engineering, a Malaysian leading solution provider in the field of lightning and surge protection, which was the world’s first order for the 500 W high-efficiency solar PV modules. In March 2021, Risen has also inked a joint contract with Green Gold Energy (GGE) in South Australia to design and build 16 solar PV projects with a total capacity of 4.95 MW in Australia for the next two years.
(Sources: The Edge Markets; Business Today; Risen Energy)