In an effort to achieve clean energy and net zero emissions (NZE), Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister, Arifin Tasrif, highlighted the vast renewable energy potential within ASEAN member countries. Tasrif announced that this potential is predicted to reach an impressive 17,000 Gigawatts, offering a significant opportunity for sustainable development.
To drive the transition towards renewable energy, ASEAN has formulated the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC). This comprehensive plan aims to foster collaboration and encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources, ultimately realizing the NZE target.
The short-term objectives outlined in the APAEC involve achieving a renewable energy mix of 23 percent in total primary energy supply and a renewable energy capacity of 35 percent in power plants across ASEAN member countries by 2025. By 2030, the medium-term target is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in each country according to their nationally determined contributions. The long-term goal is to achieve NZE by 2050.
Indonesia, as a key advocate for sustainable energy, plans to rally all ASEAN member countries in declaring their commitment to the NZE target during the 41st ASEAN Ministers of Energy Meeting in August 2023. This move is part of Indonesia's focus on energy transition and the pursuit of sustainable energy security during its ASEAN chairmanship.
The significance of the sustainable energy transition was underscored during the 42nd ASEAN Summit, held in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province from May 9-11. The summit provided a platform for discussions on this vital topic.
To support the NZE agenda, Indonesia will implement several key programs, including the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline (TAGP), Coal and Clean Coal Technology, Energy Efficiency and Conservation, Renewable Energy, Regional Energy Policy and Planning, as well as Civilian Nuclear Energy.
Pertamina, Indonesia's state-run oil and gas company, is also committed to contributing actively to the NZE target as part of Indonesia's ASEAN chairmanship. Pertamina's President Director, Nicke Widyawati, affirmed the company's dedication to reducing oil-based fuels by 64 percent by 2023. Additionally, Pertamina aims to increase the utilization of natural gas and renewable energy by 19 percent and 17 percent, respectively, in the same timeframe.
The ambitious plans set forth by ASEAN member countries reflect their collective determination to harness the abundant renewable energy potential in the region. With concerted efforts and collaboration, ASEAN aims to pave the way for a clean and sustainable future while mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
