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Biodiversity & Land Use

Protecting Bird Species at LSS Sepang Solar Park Managing Human-Wildlife Conflicts at Bukit Selambau Solar Park as Grazing Ground
Solar Park
The LSS Sepang Solar Park in Selangor is significant not only LSS Bukit Selambau also serves as an alternative
for its role in renewable energy production but also for its In Kedah, the Bukit Selambau Solar Park faces distinct grazing ground for a nearby goat herder. The use of livestock
contribution to local biodiversity conservation. On 3 July 2023, challenges due to its proximity to long-tailed macaque for natural vegetation control is a method increasingly
TNB Renewables, in collaboration with Persatuan Rekreasi habitats. These adaptable primates have increasingly being adopted at solar farms abroad. In Bukit Selambau,
dan Bimbingan Alam Semulajadi Selangor (Sarang), launched ventured into human areas, leading to conflicts, especially as approximately 30 Boer goats are introduced into the solar park
a bird identification initiative during the “Hari Hargai Alam” they search for food. To manage this, TNB developed a Conflict per session, with two sessions held daily-one in the morning
event. This survey documented 28 bird species within the Management Plan, which include detailed behavioural and one in the afternoon. This practice is currently being
solar park, comprising 25 resident species, such as the ecology studies and DNA metabarcoding. trialled and monitored to evaluate its long-term feasibility.
White Throated Kingfisher and Crested Serpent Eagle, and 3
migratory species like the Pheasant Tailed Jacana. The behavioural studies map the macaques’ movement The approach of using livestock for vegetation management
patterns, social structures, and food sources, providing at solar parks has been successfully implemented in several
The presence of species like the Crested Serpent Eagle, TNB with essential data to modify the park’s environment countries. Grazing helps control overgrown vegetation, which
which requires a stable prey population, indicates a and reduce conflicts. DNA metabarcoding, which analyses is crucial for preventing shading over solar panels that could
well-functioning ecosystem within the park. Migratory species, the macaques’ diet through their faecal samples, offers reduce energy efficiency. In addition to lowering the costs
which depend on the park’s wetlands during their journeys, insights into their dietary habits. This information allows TNB associated with traditional mechanical mowing, this
emphasize the importance of these habitats. The project titled to minimise the macaques’ attraction to human areas and method also minimises the environmental impact by reducing
“Documentation of Avian Species at LSS Sepang,” funded ensuring the solar park’s operations are not disrupted. the need for chemical herbicides.
by TNB Sepang Solar Sdn. Bhd. (TSS), aims to capture
high-resolution photos, identify species, and observe their The solar park benefits from reduced vegetation management
activities. This initiative also seeks to develop a methodology costs and an eco-friendly method of maintaining the land,
that balances species preservation with the solar plant’s while the local herder gains access to additional grazing land
operations, ensuring that the park functions efficiently while for his goats. The Boer goats used at LSS Bukit Selambau are
safeguarding biodiversity. well-suited for this environment due to their hardiness and
grazing efficiency. This arrangement promotes a mutually
beneficial relationship between renewable energy production
and local agricultural practices

Carbon Management Water Management Biodiversity & Land Use Opportunities in RE Toxic Emissions & Waste
Human Capital Development Health & Safety Labour Rights Supply Chain Management Community Relations Corporate Governance