Uplands signs up for green energy programme with TNB Energy Services Sdn Bhd

TNB Energy Services Sdn Bhd (TNBES) and The International School of Penang (Uplands) have signed a Master of Agreement (MoA) to officiate a partnership in the Green Energy Programme (GEP) that supports Penang’s green initiative towards achieving Malaysia’s overall CO2 emission reduction target.

TNBES, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Berhad, is primarily involved in providing green energy solutions services in relation to renewable energy and energy efficiency, was signed by its Managing Director, Dr. Ir. Ahmad Jaafar Abd Hamid, while, Uplands, a not-for-profit and co-educational international school was signed by its Governor, Mrs Uta Malik.

Mr Giles Mongare, Principal, said: "Today marks the beginning of another new chapter in Uplands’ long history. I am very proud to be able to sign this agreement on behalf of The ISP Schools association and embark on an exciting partnership with TNB energy services. Our entire school community, driven by its fine young students, insist that we play our part in supporting Penang’s green initiatives. Today marks the end of a huge amount of planning and the start of a brighter, greener future for us all."

Quotes from Uplands Green Club students

“I feel that solar panels are a huge step forward in Uplands’ drive to reduce energy consumption and to make Uplands a greener school.” – Qing Yun

“I feel as though solar panels are beneficial towards Uplands becoming a more sustainable school, and becoming a role model for other communities to follow.” – Keira Jordan

“As a school that is trying to be greener, electricity is one thing that is extremely hard to cut down on, that we use all the time. Solar panels allow us to fix that problem without sacrificing efficiency!” – Aoife SO

The MoA endeavours to strengthen and promote collaboration between parties in discussion projects related to TNBES Green Energy Programme. The potential projects will involve implementation of energy efficiency programme using light-emitting diode (LED) lighting retrofit and air-conditioning units, and thereafter the installation of solar panels.

Under the MoA, TNBES will invest, operate & maintain the photovoltaic (PV) system throughout the contract period. By embarking on this programme Uplands school will enjoy the benefits of clean electricity at zero capital upfront cost with guaranteed energy savings.

Ideally, with the signing of this MoA, it will have a positive impact for both organisations in supporting the government's efforts to preserve, restore natural environments as part of mitigating climate change.

The green energy programme is also in line with the Penang state government’s vision (Penang 2030) towards a family-focused green and smart state that inspires the nation.