TNB Monopole Transmission Towers: New Landmarks In Penang Set For Inauguration Soon

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 2 (Bernama) -- Tenaga Nasional Berhad's (TNB) Monopole Transmission Tower Project, a high-impact initiative to enhance Penang's electricity supply, became operational on Dec 22 last year.

Penang’s Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman, Zairil Khir Johari, stated that the RM500 million project, launched at the end of 2022, will be officially inaugurated within the next two months.

"During the project’s development, the state government requested that the lights on the towers, which are aligned with the Penang Bridge, be illuminated as an attraction.

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"However, there were no discussions on specific lighting colours. At present, the lights are switched on daily from 7 pm to 4 pm. 

"I was informed that the towers are equipped with 200 distinct colour palettes, displayed through themed settings," he said during a press conference at Komtar today.

Electricity supply to Penang is now directly connected via an 8.5-kilometre 275kV monopole transmission line, linking the Perai Power Station Main Intake Substation (PMU) to The Light PMU, which runs parallel to the Penang Bridge.

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A total of 31 monopole towers were constructed, six featuring unique betel nut-inspired designs, reflecting local culture and enhancing the project’s aesthetic appeal.

Media reports highlight that the illuminated TNB monopole towers near the Penang Bridge have become a new landmark and tourist attraction.

The vibrant lights, first illuminated at midnight during the New Year’s Eve celebrations, added a festive touch to the occasion.

One of the most striking combinations featured blue, yellow, and white, symbolising the Penang flag.

This project was undertaken to safeguard the stability of the existing power supply system, especially given the 300-megawatt generation capacity of the island's sole power station, SJ Gelugor.

-- BERNAMA