Sarawak Government Empowered to Regulate Hydrogen Activities with New Amendment Bill
Key Ideas
- The Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Sarawak will allow the state government to regulate various aspects of hydrogen, including generation, land use for facilities, and distribution.
- Royston Valentine highlighted the importance of the amendment, positioning Sarawak as a leader in adopting hydrogen as a clean energy source, with regulations on licensing, safety, and environmental standards.
- The bill introduces licensing procedures, specifications, and standards for hydrogen activities, empowering the government to levy charges associated with hydrogen production and distribution, promoting safety and efficiency.
- The amendments aim to provide a clear framework for hydrogen production and distribution, ensuring compliance with strict safety, health, and environmental standards while encouraging innovation in the green energy sector.
The Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Sarawak has been passed, granting the state government regulatory authority over hydrogen activities. Royston Valentine, in support of the bill, emphasized its significance in positioning Sarawak as a pioneer in embracing hydrogen as a clean energy source. The amendment enables the government to set regulations on various aspects of hydrogen, encompassing licensing procedures, specifications, standards for generation, quality, safety, and decommissioning of facilities. Specific sections such as 19B and 19C introduce licensing requirements for hydrogen-related activities, ensuring adherence to stringent safety, health, and environmental standards. Moreover, Section 19F grants the government the power to impose levies, charges, and fees related to hydrogen production and distribution. These measures aim to bolster the safety, efficiency, and innovation in the green energy sector, establishing a robust framework for hydrogen operations in Sarawak.