French firm finishes floating solar platform for Petronas’ project in Malaysia

French renewable energy firm Offsolar has finalized the construction of its 238 kWp floating solar platform for state-owned energy player Petronas’ Centre of Excellence for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE) project in Malaysia, marking a step in offshore renewable energy development.

According to Offsolar, the platform is now set to enter its commissioning phase under Petronas’ energy transition strategy.

Designed to withstand harsh marine conditions, the floating solar system aims to provide clean and competitive electricity in regions where land availability is limited, Offsolar said. 

“This project with the PETRONAS Group represents a key milestone for the AREMA GROUP and demonstrates PETRONAS’s confidence in our expertise,” said Offsolar in a social media post.

“We are honored to be part of PETRONAS’ energy transition and contribute to innovative and accessible renewable energy.”

Developed in collaboration with University Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Schneider Electric Industrial Automation, CITAGLOBAL ENERGY SDN, and Honeywell Energy and Sustainability Solutions, the project aligns with Malaysia’s national energy transition roadmap.

UMT described the CEFORE project as an effort to integrate offshore wind turbines, floating photovoltaics, ocean wave energy, and an advanced energy management system into a cohesive renewable energy framework.

“Beyond its immediate benefits, the CEFORE project illuminates the pathway for UMT and PETRONAS to attain remarkable strides within Malaysia’s burgeoning renewable energy landscape. Moreover, the electricity generated promises to enrich the lives of not only the UMT fraternity but also the local community, including the vital fishing industry,” said UMT.

Offsolar, headquartered in Toulouse, aims to advance offshore renewables with cost-efficient deployment and proven resilience in challenging marine conditions. Tested in multiple regions, the system integrates effectively with offshore wind, aquaculture, and fishing operations, enabling multi-functional use of marine spaces, said Offsolar.

According to Rystad Energy’s research, floating solar is poised to play a critical role in Southeast Asia’s renewable energy expansion, addressing challenges posed by a lack of suitable sites for onshore solar farms.