PETALING JAYA: Pekat Group Bhd has completed a RM33.1mil, 12 megawatt-peak (MWp) grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Proton Holdings Bhd’s plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak.

       In a statement yesterday, Pekat said the project was undertaken by its wholly owned subsidiary – Pekat Solar Sdn Bhd – and MFP Solar Sdn Bhd in a record time of 24 weeks, which was six months ahead of schedule.

       “The project, which encompasses a car park area of approximately 23 acres with 2,880 parking lots, entailed the usage of 20,544 pieces of solar panels, while the rooftop facility required a further 7,664 pieces of solar panels.”

       Utilising the latest bi-facial solar panel technology, Pekat said this will enable Proton to harvest additional energy from the rear side of the module.

       “This is especially effective at the car park area, when light-coloured vehicles parked underneath these solar panels reflect the sun’s radiation, hence providing the extra yields.

       This is a first of its kind for such a large-scale project,” it said.

       Boasting a nine MWp system capacity, Pekat said the car park facility gives annual savings of RM4.39mil with the capability of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 8,652 tonnes a year.

       Meanwhile, the three MWp rooftop facility, which entails annual savings of RM1.46mil, is able to reduce CO2 emissions by 2,884 tonnes a year, said Pekat.

       “The deal involves a power purchase agreement (PPA) where MFP Solar will supply power to Proton at rates stipulated in the 15-year PPA.”

       In the same statement, Pekat executive director Wee Chek Aik (pic) said the entire project will make Proton’s Tanjung Malim facility a model automotive plant that promotes the use of clean energy for a better working and living environment.

       “We are proud to be part of the quest to help Proton achieve Malaysia’s carbon-neutral target by 2050,” he said.

       Wee emphasised that the project will allow Proton’s facility to reduce the usage of conventional fossil fuel supply and reduce its carbon footprint.

       He added that the facility will also benefit from reduced electricity bills with lower tariffs from the solar system, and the reduced use of conventional metal decks by using solar panels as the roof material.

       It will set an example for the rest in the industry by having the largest bi-facial solar-covered car park in Malaysia, he elaborated.

       “Customers will reap the benefit from Proton’s investment in new energy technologies for its product range and its production processes.

       “This makes Proton a responsible automotive brand that cares for the environment by investing in new energy technologies,” he said.

       Pekat is principally involved in the design, supply and installation of PV systems and power plants, as well as the supply and installation of earthing and lightning protection systems.

       Its other business activities include the distribution of electrical products and accessories.