SDG #7: Affordable And Clean Energy
Ensure Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable energy
0
Active Initiatives
548
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
75,699 tonnes of CO2 saving annually
CO2 emissions
4.1MWp renewable energy capacity
Generation
75% reduction in peak power demand
Savings
UTAR Initiatives
Solar panel installations generating 4.1 MWp of clean energy for Kampar campus.
Energy efficiency programs reducing peak power demand by 75%.
Renewable energy research developing next-generation solar technologies.
LED lighting conversion saving 500 kWh annually.
Smart grid systems optimizing energy distribution.
Community solar projects providing clean energy to 10 homes.
Clean Energy Leadership @ UTAR
Pioneering sustainable energy solutions through innovation, education, and community engagement
4.1 MWp
solar Energy Capacity
75%
Peak Power Demand Reduction
Our Commitment to Clean Energy
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), clean energy is at the heart of our sustainability mission. We recognize that the transition to renewable energy is critical for addressing climate change and ensuring energy security for future generations. Our comprehensive approach encompasses cutting-edge research, practical implementation, and community education.
Through strategic investments in solar technology, energy efficiency systems, and smart grid infrastructure, UTAR has achieved remarkable progress in reducing carbon emissions while maintaining operational excellence. Our campus serves as a living laboratory where students and researchers develop innovative solutions for Malaysia's energy challenges.
Beyond our campus boundaries, UTAR extends its clean energy expertise to serve local communities through research partnerships, technology transfer programs, and educational initiatives that promote renewable energy adoption and energy conservation practices throughout Malaysia.
Our Clean Energy Principles
Renewable Energy First
Prioritizing solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact
Energy Efficiency
Implementing smart technologies and efficient systems to optimize energy consumption and reduce waste across all campus operations
Innovation & Research
Advancing clean energy technologies through cutting-edge research and development programs that benefit both academia and industry.
Clean Energy Achievements
4.1 MWp
Solar Energy Capacity
75%
Peak Power Demand Reduction
75,699 tonnes
Carbon Emissions Reduction
100%
buildings with Smart systems
Our Strategic Clean Energy Approach
Infrastructure Development
Comprehensive renewable energy infrastructure including solar installations, energy storage systems, and smart grid technologies
Performance Monitoring
Real-time energy monitoring, efficiency optimization, and performance analysis through advanced data analytics and reporting systems
Education & Research
Comprehensive clean energy education programs, cutting-edge research initiatives, and community outreach to promote renewable energy adoption
UTAR Sustainable Investment & divestment Policy
Comprehensive framework for responsible investment practices aligned with clean energy and sustainability goals
Investment Principle
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Clean Energy Priority
Prioritize investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean technology sectors -
ESG Integration
Integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance factors into all investment decisions -
Long-term Value
Focus on sustainable long-term returns rather than short-term financial gains -
Transparency
Maintain transparent reporting on investment performance and sustainability impact
Divestment Criteria
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Fossil Fuel Industries
Complete divestment from coal, oil, and natural gas extraction and production companies
-
High Carbon Emitters
Divest from companies with significant carbon footprints and no transition plans
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Environmental Violators
Exclude companies with poor environmental compliance records
-
Unsustainable Practices
Avoid investments in companies with unsustainable business models
Sustainable Investment Categories
Renewable Energy
Solar, wind, hydroelectric, and other renewable energy technologies, including energy storage and grid infrastructure investments
Clean Technology
Energy efficiency solutions, smart grid technologies, electric vehicles, and innovative clean technology companies
Sustainable Infrastructure
Green buildings, sustainable transportation, water management, and climate-resilient infrastructure projects.
Investment Screening Process
Step 1: Initial ESG Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of environmental, social, and governance factors
Step 2: Carbon Footprint Analysis
Detailed assessment of carbon emissions and climate impact
Step 3: Sustainability Alignment
Evaluation of alignment with UN SDGs and UTAR sustainability goals
Step 4: Risk Assessment
Analysis of climate-related financial and transition risks
Implementation Timeline
Phase 1: Immediate Divestment (2024)
Complete divestment from direct fossil fuel investments
Phase 2: Portfolio Transition (2025)
Gradual transition of remaining investments to sustainable alternatives
Phase 3: Full Implementation (2026)
Complete alignment with sustainable investment criteria
Phase 4: Continuous Monitoring (Ongoing)
Regular review and optimization of investment portfolio
Policy Governance & Monitoring
Governance Structure
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Investment Committee oversight and decision-making
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Sustainability Committee policy guidance
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External ESG advisory services
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Annual policy review and update
Governance Structure
- Investment Committee oversight and decision-making
- Sustainability Committee policy guidance
- External ESG advisory services
- Annual policy review and update
Performance Metrics
- Carbon intensity reduction tracking
- Sustainable investment portfolio percentage
- Environmental impact assessment
- ESG rating improvements
Investment Impact Goals
2025 Targets
- 80% sustainable investment portfolio
- Complete fossil fuel divestment
- 50% carbon intensity reduction
2027 Objectives
- 100% sustainable investment alignment
- Net-positive environmental impact
- Industry-leading ESG performance
2032 Vision
- Global sustainable investment leadership
- Climate-positive investment portfolio
- Transformative clean energy impact
Energy Management Policy
UTAR is committed to implementing energy management practices to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and support sustainable development across all campuses.
Policy Statement
UTAR is committed to:
- Reduce energy consumption: Through improved efficiency and behavioural changes.
- Transition to renewable energy: Such as solar photovoltaic systems whenever feasible.
- Support research and innovation: In affordable and clean energy technologies.
- Cultivate sustainability culture: Among staff and students through education and outreach.
Energy Efficiency
The university will:
- Energy-efficient buildings: Implement designs and retrofit infrastructure with LED lighting and smart energy management systems.
- Monitor performance: Regularly evaluate energy use to identify improvement areas.
- Procurement guidelines: Develop rules for energy-efficient equipment and appliances.
- Sustainable commuting: Encourage carpooling, public transport, and electric vehicle usage.
- Behavioural change: Reduce energy consumption through awareness and efficient practices.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
The university will:
- Adopt renewable technologies: Use rooftop solar PV systems and solar water heaters.
- Set generation targets: Reduce reliance on fossil fuels progressively.
- Living lab: Use the university for clean energy research, development, and demonstration projects.
Compliance and Governance
UTAR will ensure compliance with:
- Laws and standards: Relevant Malaysian laws including the Electricity Supply Act 1990, Renewable Energy Act 2011, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (EECA), and MS 1525 for non-residential buildings.
Implementation Strategy
- Governance: The UTAR Energy Committee will oversee policy implementation.
- Monitoring & Reporting: Energy consumption data will be collected, analyzed, and reported annually in UTAR’s Sustainability and SDG Report, including metrics on renewable energy adoption and emissions reduction.
- Responsibilities:
- University Management: Provide resources, strategic direction, and decision-making support.
- Energy Committee: Lead planning, implementation, and monitoring of energy initiatives.
- Staff & Students: Participate actively in energy-saving initiatives and adopt responsible practices.
- Facilities Management Division: Ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards and maintain energy-related infrastructure.
Clean Energy Initiative Highlights
Energy Efficient Renovation and Building
UTAR follows Green Building Design Guidelines and an Energy Management policy, emphasizing energy-efficient designs and smart energy management systems to reduce energy consumption and support sustainable campus development and operations.
100%
Energy Efficiency
3
Buildings
- Daylight harvesting and LED lighting to reduce energy use
- Motion sensors automatically control lighting
- Campus solar farm to generate clean renewable energy
- Building management system optimizes overall performance
Upgrade Buildings to Higher Energy Efficiency
UTAR plans to upgrade the KA Block in Sungai Long to achieve higher energy efficiency, enhancing sustainability, reducing energy consumption, and lowering operational costs through the installation of a high-efficiency VRF air conditioning system.
2028
Completion Target
1
Building
- Conducting energy audits for all campus buildings
- Replacing fluorescent lights with energy-efficient LED lighting
- Upgrading AHU to a high-efficiency VRF system
- Tinting windows to reduce heat gain and energy use
Carbon Reduction and Emission Reduction Process
UTAR reduces carbon emissions through the installation of solar photovoltaic systems across the Kampar Campus, generating 108,142 MWh of clean energy while serving as living laboratories for renewable energy research, education, and sustainable practices.
4.1 MWp
Total Solar Capacity
9,000+
Solar Panels Installed
- Grid-tied solar systems
- Real-time energy monitoring and optimization
- Student research and education programmes
- Annual carbon emission reduction of 75,699 tonnes
Plan to Reduce Energy Consumption
UTAR plans to reduce energy consumption by upgrading campus buildings for higher energy efficiency, optimizing operations, and integrating sustainable technologies, following a structured, long-term approach aligned with international sustainability standards.
30%
Energy Consumption Reduction
100%
LED Lighting Conversion
- Smart building management systems
- Automated lighting and HVAC controls
- Energy-efficient equipment upgrades
- Real-time energy consumption monitoring
Energy Wastage Identification
UTAR conducts regular internal energy audits across campus buildings to assess performance, identify areas of highest energy wastage, and implement corrective actions—forming a key part of its proactive energy management strategy.
24/7
Real-time Monitoring
95%
Grid Efficiency Rate
- Enable automated sleep or hibernation mode for computers
- Switch off all lighting and air conditioning after lectures
- Reinsulate FCU ducting to improve cooling efficiency
- Install air curtains to enhance air quality and reduce cooling energy
Local Community Outreach for Energy Efficiency
UTAR conducts STEM outreach programmes to promote energy efficiency and clean energy awareness, fostering sustainability, environmental responsibility, and community engagement through education and hands-on learning activities.
12
Annual Activities
300
Participants
- STEM programmes educate the community on energy efficiency
- Promote awareness of reducing daily energy consumption
- Teach the adoption and benefits of clean energy solutions
- Engage the community to foster sustainable local practices
Promote Renewable Energy Pledge
UTAR promotes renewable energy through community initiatives, installing solar PV systems, reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs, and raising environmental awareness while fostering hands-on learning, sustainability education, and university-industry-community partnerships.
3
Activity
100
Beneficiary
- Solar PV systems generate clean renewable energy efficiently
- Engages communities in renewable energy education
- Reduces electricity costs and operational energy consumption
- Collaborates with industry to implement practical energy solutions
Energy Efficiency Services to Industry
UTAR provides direct services to local industries, offering energy efficiency assessments, workshops, and research on clean energy solutions, helping businesses optimize operations, reduce energy consumption, and adopt sustainable, renewable energy technologies and carbon footprint calculation.
10
Consultancy Projects
10
Activities Annually
- Provides energy efficiency assessments and training for industries
- Offers seminars and workshops on sustainable and clean energy
- Conducts research on renewable energy solutions
- Helps industries reduce energy consumption effectively
Policy Development for Clean Energy
UTAR contributes to clean energy and energy-efficiency policy development by supporting local, regional, national, and global authorities, promoting sustainable practices, guiding regulations, and advancing renewable energy adoption across various sectors.
2
International Policy
3
Committee
- Supports policy development for clean energy adoption
- Advises authorities at local, regional, national level
- Promotes sustainable practices across multiple sectors
- Guides regulations to advance renewable energy technologies
Assistance to Low Carbon Innovation
UTAR provides support to start-ups promoting low-carbon innovations, fostering sustainable technologies, encouraging green entrepreneurship, and enabling the development of solutions that reduce carbon emissions while advancing a low-carbon economy.
5
Number of Student Start-up
3
Number of Staff Startup
- Funded through Unovate for student startup ventures
- Provides flexible working arrangements for staff startups
- Offers access to laboratory and workspace facilities
- Supports patent filing and intellectual property protection
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to affordable and clean energy
UTAR and Samaiden Group bring solar energy to welfare home in Gopeng
9 August 2025
UTAR, in collaboration with Samaiden Group Berhad, launched the CSR initiative Shine Bright with Solar Energy at Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak-anak Yatim/Miskin Dahikmah, Gopeng. A 14.715 kWp rooftop solar PV system with 27 panels was installed, expected to cut emissions by 14 tCO₂e annually and reduce electricity costs by 88.94%. The event included educational talks, interactive sessions, and a colouring contest, promoting renewable energy awareness. The initiative reflects UTAR and Samaiden’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and advancing SDGs.
Energy Transition and Business Sustainability
26 February 2025
UTAR hosted Dr Tee Wu Shun, Chief Strategy Officer of Samaiden Group Berhad, for a talk on Energy Transition and Business Sustainability. He highlighted climate change challenges, the role of businesses in achieving net-zero targets, and Malaysia’s clean energy potential, including solar, hydro, bioenergy, and geothermal resources. Dr Tee shared national initiatives and Samaiden’s sustainability journey aligned with the UN SDGs, stressing innovation, stakeholder engagement, and accountability. His insights inspired UTAR’s community to actively contribute to a sustainable future.
Award-winning Malaysian inventors talk about turning ideas into sustainable solutions
26 February 2025
UTAR, through the MINDS UTAR-Chapter, hosted a talk on “Ideation & Teamwork” featuring inventors Mr Bao Kiew Wu and Ms Teng Yu-Mein, inspiring participants on innovation and problem-solving. Mr Bao shared his journey developing the Ocean Wave Power System, highlighting the role of observation, research, and design thinking in creating sustainable solutions. Ms Teng discussed the creation of the Efinity Water Filter, providing clean, affordable water to rural communities, demonstrating practical innovation that addresses real-world challenges and promotes environmental and social well-being.
Guest lecture explores social media, tourism and renewable energy in Algeria
25 February 2025
UTAR Faculty of Business and Finance welcomed guest lecturers Dr Lagraa Meriem and Dr Djouahra Saliha from Algeria, enhancing global academic collaboration. Their session explored sustainable economic topics, including social media in tourism and renewable energy development. Students actively discussed sustainable tourism policies, solar power feasibility, and energy infrastructure roles. The lectures offered practical insights into technology, economics, and sustainability, enriching learning and reinforcing UTAR’s dedication to international academic partnerships and knowledge exchange.
UTAR visit Heze and Dezhou universities to strengthen academic ties
14 November 2024
UTAR reinforced academic collaboration with Heze and Dezhou universities through a delegation led by VP Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min. In Heze, discussions covered teacher training, student exchanges, degree progression, and cultural ties. In Dezhou, UTAR and Dezhou University launched the Joint Laboratory for Distributed Photovoltaic Microgrids, with senior academics including Prof Dr Chong Kok Keong attending. The initiative fosters innovation, faculty engagement, and graduate development, highlighting UTAR’s commitment to international collaboration and research excellence.
UTAR team's EV project earns IEEE BIG 2024 semi-final spot
12 November 2024
UTAR LKC FES students Bong Qin Zhe, Ooi Jin Wei, and Tan Yan Zhen, guided by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat, reached the semi-finals of IEEE BIG 2024 with their project Earn Carbon Credit by Charging EV. Their cutting-edge system measures and rewards reductions in electric vehicles’ carbon footprints, addressing a pressing sustainability challenge. Competing internationally, the students gained hands-on experience, demonstrating UTAR’s commitment to nurturing innovative talent, driving green solutions, and advancing impactful sustainable technologies globally.
UTAR trio sweeps top prizes at Innozilla 2024
14 September 2024
Three UTAR students from LKC FES—Bong Qin Zhe, Ooi Jin Wei, and Tan Yan Zhen—excelled at USM “Innozilla 2024,” winning three grand prizes: Gold Medal, Best TrailBlazer Invention, and Special Award in Eco Carbon. Guided by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat, their project Earn Carbon Credit by Charging EV developed an innovative system to track and quantify electric vehicles’ carbon footprints. Their achievement demonstrates exceptional innovation, technical expertise, and underscores the vital role of industry-academia collaboration in driving sustainable technology and environmental solutions.
UTAR academic receives LIF global 2025 award by Royal Academy of Engineering
14 September 2024
Prof Dr Chong Kok Keong from UTAR LKC FES was honoured at the Leaders in Innovation Fellowships Global 2025 for his Dense-Array Concentrator Photovoltaic (DACPV) system, a solar technology achieving 40% efficiency. It generates electricity while repurposing waste heat for water heating or cooling, providing a cost-effective, sustainable energy solution. With over 15 years of research, Prof Chong’s innovation enhances clean energy access, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and advances green technology, reflecting UTAR’s dedication to sustainable engineering.
UTAR STEM outreach conducts workshop on renewable energy
6 April 2024
The workshop titled “How Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Work?” was led by Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science academic Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lim Boon Han. Participants actively engaged in hands-on experiments with solar panels, lamps, wind turbines, fuel cells, and batteries, gaining valuable practical experience and technical insights. Under Dr Lim’s guidance, students explored real-world applications, understood how renewable energy and storage systems operate, and learned effective strategies to harness clean energy, contributing to sustainable, innovative, and environmentally responsible solutions.
LKCFES academics secured grant to develop integrated solar hydrogen system
1 March 2024
Prof Dr Chong Kok Keong from UTAR’s Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, along with his research team, secured a research grant from Ecosys Group Sdn Bhd to develop a novel integrated solar hydrogen system. The project, DACPV-PEM, combines dense-array concentrator photovoltaics with a Proton-Exchange-Membrane electrolyser to generate hydrogen efficiently. The interdisciplinary team aims to design a prototype featuring AI-based sun tracking, advanced thermal management, and improved catalytic materials, advancing the commercialisation of sustainable energy solutions.
MoU with the Association of Energy Engineers Malaysia Chapter
17 January 2024
UTAR formalised a strategic partnership with the Association of Energy Engineers Malaysia Chapter to promote sustainable energy research, knowledge exchange, and educational initiatives. The MoU, signed by UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and AEE Malaysia Chapter President Mr Man Kim Toong, supports joint research, staff exchanges, industrial visits, and student placements. The collaboration bridges academia and industry, fostering innovation and developing future energy professionals to advance sustainable practices in Malaysia’s energy sector.
UTAR seals partnership with Samaiden Group Berhad
17 January 2024
UTAR strengthened its industry collaboration through a memorandum of understanding with Samaiden Group Berhad, aiming to advance sustainable development and renewable energy innovation. The partnership enables joint projects, curriculum development, industrial placements, and knowledge exchange, enriching students’ learning and staff development. UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and Samaiden Managing Director Ir Chow Pui Hee highlighted the collaboration’s potential to nurture future experts in solar photovoltaic systems and renewable energy, combining academic excellence with industry expertise.
June 2023 FYP poster competition and industry interaction day at UTAR
19 September 2023
UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) organised the biannual Final Year Project (FYP) Poster Competition and Industry Interaction Day for the June 2023 trimester at Sungai Long Campus. The event showcased 54 shortlisted posters from 348 students across nine tracks, allowing final-year students to demonstrate research skills, creativity, and professionalism. Posters were evaluated by 23 judges, with top entries awarded Gold, Silver, Bronze prizes, and the Most-liked Poster Award. All participants received certificates, fostering talent and industry readiness.
Champion at By2050 pitch competition
27 June 2023
A UTAR team of LKC FES students—Thong Jin Cheng, Choy Jia Qi, and Chow Kok Keong—emerged as Champion at the By2050 Pitch Competition held during the Energy Asia Conference 2023, winning RM10,000 and a trophy. Their innovative system integrated edge-cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and virtual energy storage to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, supporting SDG 7. Guided by UTAR experts, the team presented a scalable solution for efficient, personalised energy management. The competition encouraged sustainable innovations and collaboration among top universities, showcasing UTAR students’ creativity, technical expertise, and commitment to a greener future.
Insightful visit to Batang Lupar bridge and LONGi solar factory in Sarawak
5 April 2023
UTAR LKC FES and MBEC-Jawala Consortium Sdn Bhd organised a student visit to Batang Lupar Bridge and LONGi Solar Factory in Sarawak, involving 28 UTAR civil engineering students and 40 CHHS students. The visit provided hands-on learning in bridge design, construction, and solar cell manufacturing, while highlighting sustainable energy and career opportunities. Sponsored by Silverlake Axis and BRISEC, the initiative promoted cultural exchange, networking, practical experience, and strengthened UTAR-industry collaboration under the Belt and Road programme.
Engineering postgrad shines in international conferences
20 March 2023
UTAR PhD student Muhammad Tarique Lakhiar received international recognition for his research and presentation skills, earning the Best Presenter award at CDSD 2023 in Vietnam and the Best Paper award at the 13th IEOM Conference in the Philippines. His research focused on passive design strategies to improve energy efficiency in office buildings and the integration of Green BIM in sustainable construction. Muhammad’s work contributes to energy-efficient building design, reduced environmental impact, enhanced urban sustainability, and the promotion of greener construction practices.
Relevance Research Centre
Belt and Road Strategic Research Centre
Centre for Environment and Green Technology
Centre for Economic Studies
Centre for Advanced and Sustainable Materials Research
Centre for Power Systems and Electricity
Centre for Sustainable Mobility Technologies
Future Goals & Vision
- Achieve 100% renewable energy by 2032.
- Establish energy storage research facility.
- Launch community energy knowldge sharing programmes.
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