NEWS & UPDATE

KUCHING
28 AUGUST 2026

Despite the prolonged dry weather, Sarawak’s overall electricity supply remains reliable and sufficient, supported by Sarawak Energy’s established planning and operational measures for managing hydrological conditions at its hydropower plants.

While reduced rainfall in the catchments since April 2025 has resulted in lower inflows into the reservoirs at Bakun, Murum and Batang Ai hydropower plants (HEPs), the State’s diversified and integrated power system allows Sarawak Energy to manage these conditions by adjusting the generation mix as needed.

Hydropower typically accounts for around 65% of electricity supplied to the grid, with thermal generation making up roughly 34% and other sources the remaining 1%. During prolonged dry periods, hydropower output may be reduced to conserve reservoir levels, while thermal generation is increased as needed to maintain reliable electricity supply. When reservoir conditions improve, the balance can be adjusted accordingly.

Sarawak Energy continues to closely monitor hydrological and reservoir conditions at all three HEPs and is working closely with key agencies including the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT), Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) and Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) to coordinate the ongoing response.

In May and June 2026, two cloud-seeding operations were carried out by the Sarawak Government under the coordination of SDMC to encourage rainfall over major dam and water catchment areas. A third series of cloud-seeding operations is tentatively scheduled to take place from 3 to 5 September 2026.

As hot and dry weather conditions continue, customers are also encouraged to use electricity prudently, particularly the use of air-conditioning and other cooling appliances. This includes turning off the appliances that are not in use and spacing out the use of high-powered appliances rather than running them together.

For a closer look at usage patterns, customers with smart meters can turn to the SEB cares mobile app and web portal, where the Energy Insights feature breaks down consumption by hour, day and month, making it easier to identify opportunities to manage their electricity use.

Sarawak Energy, together with the Sarawak Government and relevant agencies, remains committed to maintaining reliable electricity supply for all customers while continuing efforts to conserve reservoir levels during the prolonged dry period.

For enquiries or assistance, customers may contact Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, email customercare@sarawakenergy.com, access the SEB cares mobile app or web portal, or engage with its virtual agent, CARINA.