LONGi Green Energy Technology Co Ltd, the world-leading solar technology outfit, has officially launched the first phase of its Serendah Module Plant in Malaysia yesterday (Oct 17).
Located in Serendah, Selangor, the facility is an integral part of LONGi ‘s manufacturing strategy in the country.
The commencement of operations at the LONGi Serendah Module Plant symbolises the completion of a holistic photovoltaic (PV) industry chain in Malaysia.
The 140-acre module plant which entails an investment of RM1.8 bil represents LONGi’s inaugural manufacturing presence in West Malaysia.
The facility which boasts cutting-edge technology and equipment from the contemporary photovoltaic (PV) sector is slated for a two-phase development \with a combined capacity of 8.8GW (gigawatt) (2.8GW in the first phase and 6GW in the second).
With the first phase now operational, the second phase has already been initiated. Presently, the Serendah Module Plant has generated roughly 900 local employment opportunities, a number anticipated to exceed 2,000 in the coming times.
During the inaugural ceremony, the International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) deputy secretary-general (management & investment) Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil (in pink dress above) emphasised Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to sustainable growth.
“We envision Malaysia as a central hub for global trade and industry, fostering an environment that champions innovation, sustainable expansion, and technological prowess,” she pointed out in her keynote address.
“Today’s inauguration of the LONGi Serendah Module Plant is a testament to our collaborative strides with LONGi towards achieving sustainable development. With the global PV market poised for significant growth, Malaysia stands at the cusp of green revitalisation – a fact that fills us with immense pride.”
Since venturing overseas in 2015 and establishing a foothold in Malaysia in 2016, LONGi has sequentially launched operations in silicon rod, wafer, cell and module manufacturing in Kuching and Bintulu in Sarawak.
Kuching which is LONGi’s first international base is also the world’s premiere vertically integrated mono-crystalline silicon solar manufacturing unit. To date, LONGi ‘s investments in Malaysia have reached a commendable RM5.4 bil.
Emphasizing localised growth, LONGi’s workforce in Malaysia has risen from an initial 570 to over 8,000 in 2023, with a staggering 99.9% being Malaysian nationals.
Beyond bolstering the local economy, LONGi’s latest venture will also significantly aid Malaysia in its pursuit of sustainable development goals and in its ambition to lead decarbonisation efforts in the Asia-Pacific, according to its vice-president Li Wenxue.
“Recognising Malaysia’s robust international logistics, talented workforce and a government that’s resolutely pro-sustainability, we’ve also resolved to set up LONGi’s Asia-Pacific headquarters in Kuala Lumpur,” he envisages.
“This will synergise with our Malaysian production base, thus further augmenting LONGi ‘s brand resonance in the region.” – Oct 18, 2023
