CIMB keeps "Buy" call on TNB, RM15.90 target

KUALA LUMPUR: Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) has guided for a high single-digit equity internal rate of return (IRR) on its hybrid hydro floating solar at Tasik Kenyir after taking into account higher capital expenditure of between 10 and 15 per cent on the project.

CIMB Securities Sdn Bhd said that the solar project in Tasik Kenyir has three benefits, namely increased power output owing to the waterbody's cooling effect, zero land clearing and avoidance of 650,000 tonnes of annual carbon dioxide emissions.

The project is expected to have limited impact on Tasik Kenyir's biodiversity, as it will only cover 1.4 per cent of the lake's surface.

Meanwhile, TNB's Sungai Perak's Hydro Life Extension Programme will rehabilitate and upgrade TNB's ageing Sungai Perak hydroelectric plant, covering five hydro stations with a combined installed capacity of 648 megawatts.

TNB said project progress had reached 36 per cent as of June, with commissioning planned in phases over 2026–2033.

The firm kept its "Buy" call on TNB with an unchanged target price of RM15.90.

CIMB Securities retained its earnings per share forecasts for the group for financial year 2026 (FY26) through FY28, as it does expect the two initiatives to provide a meaningful earnings boost over the next three years.

"Nevertheless, we view both projects positively, as they are aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap, which targets 70 per cent renewable energy capacity by 2050, and may lead to further improvements in TNB's ESG ratings."