Figure 8 : Potential Resource in East Malaysia ( Sabah ). Source : Google Maps
For granitic systems in Peninsular Malaysia , the models adopted in Figures 3 , 4 and 5 may be used as general conceptual models for thermal spring occurrence . The thermal springs were found mainly within fault planes , and within contact zones of granite and metasediments .
Based on the preliminary assessments done for the selected thermal sites in Peninsular Malaysia , the most promising sites , based on subsurface or reservoir temperatures , include areas in the Hulu Slim , Lojing , Sg . Kelah , Trong , Dusun Tua , Hulu Tamu and in Lubuk Timah . As for the Trong area in Taiping and the one in Parit Gerisek , Johor , further studies need to be carried out to ascertain the occurrence of seawater intrusion in the areas .
SABAH REGION
Apas Kiri and adjacent areas in Tawau- Semporna Peninsula
Based on geothermal surveys carried out in Apas Kiri , Tawau , ( see Figures 6 and 8 ), conducted by the author from the year 2001-2009 , with JMG , the area selected was based on young volcanic rocks , which differed from the granitic systems in Peninsular Malaysia , the estimated resource potential was 67Mwe . After a further detailed study done by Tawau Green Energy Sdn Bhd ( TGESB ), it was recalculated to be 85MWe ( Barnett , 2010 ). Previously , TGESB was developing a 37MW Geothermal Power Plant under SEDA Malaysia ’ s Feed in Tariff ( FiT ) Scheme , but the operation ceased due to some constraints . It is learnt that it will be taken over by other developers .
Other areas surveyed for geothermal potential , by JMG , included the Segaria - Sungai Jipun - Gunung Pock area , in Kunak . The area ( see Figure 7 ), based on preliminary calculations , has minimum capacity of 40.25MWe ( JMG preliminary calculation , 2014 ).
Note : The volume of geothermal potential cited in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah / Labuan is based on preliminary studies . Further exploration is needed to get more accurate data on the resource potential .
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