Petronas, UMT Unveil Cefore, a global first in offshore renewable energy innovation

SHAH ALAM - Malaysia has made a significant move towards a sustainable energy future with the launch of the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (Cefore).

This ambitious collaboration between Petronas and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) brings together offshore wind, solar and wave energy with cutting-edge storage and management technologies.

In what is hailed as one of the world’s first integrated offshore renewable energy models, Cefore serves as both a proof-of-concept facility and a research and innovation hub.

Located off the coast of Kuala Terengganu, the facility aims to deliver continuous, renewable and reliable power through a hybrid system that stores and manages energy efficiently, even under fluctuating environmental conditions.

The initiative reflects Petronas’ and UMT’s shared commitment to advancing Malaysia’s low-carbon ambitions under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and supporting Terengganu’s own sustainability agenda.

Cefore showcases Malaysia’s and Terengganu’s commitment to innovation and sustainability through one of the world’s first offshore continuous renewable energy solutions.

The launch ceremony at Pantai Tok Jembal was graced by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin ibni Almarhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah and Her Royal Highness Sultanah Nur Zahirah.

The event was also attended by several distinguished guests, including Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ir Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, Petronas Chairman Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh, UMT Chairman Professor Dr Mohamad Salmi Mohd Sohod, Petronas Senior Vice President of Projects, Technology and Health, Safety, Security and Environment (PT&HSSE) Ir Ts Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof and UMT Vice-Chancellor Professor Ir Ts Dr Mohd Zamri Ibrahim.

Petronas Chairman Mohd Bakke described the project as a landmark achievement in Malaysia’s pursuit of clean energy innovation.

“Petronas places great emphasis on sustainable development for the future. In line with this, we hope that Cefore can serve as a catalyst for the development of renewable energy among future generations.

“Cefore is a proof of concept of mixed renewable energy and a research hub, representing a major step in Malaysia’s energy journey.

“By leveraging Terengganu’s rich resources, we have developed one of the world’s first offshore solutions for continuous renewable energy, showcasing Malaysia’s ability to deliver forward-looking and high-impact solutions globally,” he said.

UMT Vice-Chancellor Zamri highlighted the university’s pride in contributing to a pioneering national initiative.

“Cefore not only drives the nation's renewable energy journey but also provides a platform for UMT to develop specialised courses in this field to nurture future talents.

“Cefore stands as a platform for knowledge integration, innovation and national capacity development, supporting Malaysia’s long-term energy transition goals,” he mentioned.

Cefore, one of the world’s first integrated offshore renewable energy models, combines wind, solar and wave power with storage and management systems to deliver reliable clean energy.

Cefore also aims to benefit local communities directly. Fisherfolk in nearby coastal areas will gain access to renewable energy-powered cold storage and ice-making facilities, helping them reduce costs and increase productivity while cutting reliance on conventional energy sources.

Beyond its industrial and community goals, Cefore will serve as an edu-tourism and public learning hub, offering visitors hands-on experiences to better understand renewable energy technologies and sustainable living practices.

The facility also plays a central role in talent development. Petronas, through Institut Teknologi Petroleum Petronas (INSTEP) and UMT will leverage Cefore to deliver technical training and renewable energy programmes, equipping the next generation with the skills required for Malaysia’s energy transition.

Developed through a strong partnership between industry, academia and technology partners, Cefore is supported by Arema Energies, Schneider Electric, Citaglobal and Honeywell.

The establishment of Cefore highlights Petronas’ broader mission to balance energy security, affordability and sustainability while uplifting communities and strengthening Malaysia’s position as a leader in the clean energy revolution.