Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) officially launched the 100MW/400MWh Santong Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on May 18, 2026, in Dungun, Terengganu, Malaysia [1, 2, 3]. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof [1, 2, 3].

The Santong BESS aims to strengthen grid flexibility and reliability, supporting the expansion of renewable energy sources like solar power that require advanced storage to manage supply fluctuations [3]. Datuk Seri Fadillah emphasized the strategic importance of focusing on research and development in energy storage to reduce reliance on imported batteries and build Malaysia’s own manufacturing capabilities. “Rather than merely importing batteries, we should begin focusing on research and development, while also building our own internal capabilities in battery manufacturing and other technologies closely related to the country’s energy supply,” he said [2].

He outlined the government’s approach to the energy trilemma, seeking to ensure energy security, environmental sustainability, and affordability amid increasing demand and climate challenges [2, 3]. Highlighting global supply disruptions, he noted, “Global supply disruptions, geopolitical uncertainty and rising international logistics costs have caused food prices, transportation costs and various essential goods to increase in many countries” [3].

Malaysia aims to source about 70% of its energy from renewable or clean sources by 2050 to achieve net-zero carbon emissions [2]. The Santong BESS fits into broader national efforts to future-proof Malaysia’s energy system as it navigates global market volatility and environmental pressures [3].

The launch marks a key step in Malaysia’s energy transition with the facility expected to enhance grid stability in Terengganu and support national clean energy goals. Further development and investment in local R&D and manufacturing of energy storage technologies remain priorities, according to government statements at the event [1, 2, 3].