Intel’s Rooftop Solar Farm In Malaysia Is largest One Outside U.S.

Intel’s Malaysian facility houses the company’s largest solar farm outside the United States. Spanning 50,208 square feet or 900 car parking spaces, the roof mounted panels can generate 6,000 megawatt hours of electricity annually. Operational since January 2021, they help power its chip and assembly test manufacturing facility at Kulim Hi Tech Park.

Until now, the facility was predominantly powered by natural gas and coal sources. Instead of serving as a complete replacement for said power sources, the solar farm’s power will partially replace the campus’ electricity demand during peak hours. Besides this, Intel also utilizes solar thermal systems to supply hot water to all its campuses in Malaysia.

“The use of renewable power generated on site at Intel Malaysia is a critical part of Intel’s efforts as a responsible corporate citizen to do better by our planet and as part of our RISE 2030 goals of achieving 100% renewable power, ” said Robin Martin, corporate vice president, general manager of Assembly Test Manufacturing, and managing director of Intel Malaysia.

The 3.2 megawatt installation, which began construction in 2020, will help the company reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 3,800 tons. It also serves as proof of Intel’s commitment to “conserving energy and expanding on its renewable energy projects” as it continues to reduce its impact on the environment.

The solar farm makes up 15% of Intel’s total global photovoltaic electric power capacity. This proves the importance of its Malaysian plant and the company’s willingness to reduce its own carbon footprint across its various global facilities.

Image Credit: Intel Corporation