Asian data centre operator GDS has signed a 21-year renewable energy Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA) with Malaysian solar power producer Cenergi SEA Berhad (Cenergi).
GDS said the agreement positions it among the first cohort of green power offtakers in Malaysia under the Corporate Green Power Program (CGPP) which is administered by the country’s Energy Commission.
The CGPP allows for a total of 800MWac of solar power to be developed by PV producers and secured by corporate offtakers in Peninsula Malaysia.
GDS has subscribed to 22.5MWac of renewable power for its Nusajaya Tech Park Data Center Campus in Johor, Malaysia.
GDS said the partnership with Cenergi empowers it to claim Renewable Energy Credits, facilitating reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and advancing its target of achieving net zero by 2030.
The power procured through the agreement will be supplied from Cenergi’s 29.99MWac solar array in the state of Kedah, Malaysia, expected to be operational by fourth quarter of 2025.
“Collaborating with Cenergi as pioneers in Malaysia’s renewable energy VPPA exemplifies our commitment to fostering sustainability within the industry,” said GDS chairman and chief executive William Huang.
“As a first mover in Johor with our Nusajaya Tech Park Data Center Campus and various ongoing projects, this endeavor signifies a stride forward in our journey towards achieving net zero emissions and contributing to greening the electricity grid.
“This partnership not only underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship but also reinforces our position as leaders in driving sustainable innovation within our sector.”
Cenergi group chief executive Hairol Azizi Tajudin added: “We are delighted to partner with GDS in Malaysia’s renewable energy journey.
“This collaboration underlines our dedication to sustainability and fits perfectly with our goal of promoting renewable energy projects.
By supplying GDS with green electricity from our upcoming solar farm, we’re not just helping them reach their net-zero emissions target but also contributing to Malaysia’s larger plan for a greener energy mix.
“We believe in the positive impact of such partnerships in creating a more sustainable future for all.”