Risk matrix approach of extreme temperature and precipitation for renewable energy systems in Malaysia

Abstract

Renewable energy is crucial to reducing climate change as it replaces fossil fuel-based energy sources partially. However, renewable energy facilities are highly dependent on climate conditions. There have been few studies in Malaysia focusing on the impacts of extreme temperature and precipitation on energy systems. None of the studies used the risk assessment method to examine the effects. This research aims to study the possible risks associated with common renewable energy systems in Malaysia (solar photovoltaic, anaerobic biogas system, biomass, and hydropower) using a risk matrix approach. The mitigation action plan to reduce extreme weathepact on each energy system will also be presented in this study. Three extreme temperature and precipitation scenarios were used to explore the potential impacts on infrastructures, energy resources, power capacity, and efficiency of solar photovoltaic systems, hydropower, biomass, and biogas power plant. The trend of daily temperature and precipitation in Malaysia from 1970 to 2070 is also presented. By 2070, Malaysia will be experiencing greater change in rainfall, as well as warmer temperatures and more droughts. Results of the study show that biomass is the most vulnerable to extreme temperature and precipitation.