Identification two renewable energy sources to exploit are palm oil waste and the largest resources that can easily be development the solar, particular for rural electrification
and water heating. The potential for solar power is great, given that Malaysia receives between 4.5 to 8 hours of sunshine per day and as equatorial country, a substantial amount
of solar radiation year around. [1] Moreover, a recent renewable energy study identified the renewable energy
resource potential in Malaysia has showed in the Table below which in US Dollar value. Table 2.1: Renewable Energy resource potential in Malaysia
Renewable Energy Resource Eenrgy Value in US Million Annual
Forest Residues 3,154
Palm Oil Biomass 1,679
Solar Thermal 796
Mill Residues 220
Hydro 133
Solar PV 100
Municipal Waste 50
Risk Husk 20
Landfill Gas 1
Source: Ministry of Energy. Water and Commnicatios Conversion rate: US1 equals RM 3.8
2.3 Solar Energy Power in Malaysia
Malaysia has a huge reserve of natural gas and crude oil which are generally used in power generation. Moreover, these fuels are subsidized to a large extent. Besides, the
price of electricity from the national grid is also relatively cheap. Biomass based power generation is quite prominent among the industries because the country produces large
quantities of agro-residues and industrial waste. [2]
Since Malaysia is situated in the equatorial region with an average radiation of 4,500 KWh per square meter, it is an ideal location for large scale solar power installations.
Considering that Malaysia gets on an average 4.5 hours to 8 hours of free and bountiful sunshine every day, the potential for solar power generation is very high. However, the real
harnessing of this renewable energy source is way below its actual potential. [2] A few remedial measures are:
i. Create awareness among the people through various programs about the
benefits of solar power. Extensive details of information should be publicized pertaining to technology, financial aspects, support services,
legal requirements, and environmental advantages. ii.
Incentives can be provided and credit guarantee schemes can be established to make solar power attractive.
iii. Imposing effective pricing laws taking into consideration the technology,
the size and location of the plant. iv.
Gradually reduce the subsidies given to conventional energy and alternatively provide them to renewable energy.
In order to achieve that, Malaysia should focus to achieve betterment in various social, environmental and economic parameters. Elimination of subsidies for non-
renewable energy sources and instead providing some initial handholding for renewable energy sources should help among other things in rural electrification, environmental
betterment and sustainable development. Needless to say that solar being the second major renewable energy source after biomass, would get a big boost.
2.4 PIC16F877A 40-Pin CMOS Flash Microcontroller
