Pertamina Group has introduced the Desa Energi Berdikari (DEB) program in Tanjung Palas Village, East Dumai District, aiming to enhance sustainable agricultural practices and support local communities. This initiative includes the installation of solar power plants (PLTS) to aid hydroponic farming and address energy challenges faced by local agricultural groups.
Hydroponics, a soil-less method of growing plants, has gained traction since the COVID-19 pandemic due to its potential for increasing income and optimizing space. The Sehati Group, a community organization in Dumai City, has been cultivating lettuce and mustard greens hydroponically. Operating from its “Green House,” the group produces tens of kilograms of vegetables monthly, contributing approximately IDR 1,000,000 to the local economy.
Since November 2022, the Sehati Group has received support from PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional (KPI) – Dumai Unit for its hydroponic operations. To address the high cost of electricity, Pertamina NRE and PT KPI Dumai Unit have installed a 2.2 kWp off-grid solar power plant and a 5 kWh battery storage system, formally handed over on September 7 at the Tanjung Palas Village Office Hall.
This effort is part of Pertamina Group's broader initiative to promote renewable energy in underserved villages across Indonesia. Previous DEB projects have been launched in Lampung, Bali, Aceh, and other regions.
Dicky Septriadi, Corporate Secretary of Pertamina NRE, noted, “We are proud of this collaboration and aim to expand our support for renewable energy projects and public education on energy transition.”
Agustiawan, Area Manager of Communication, Relations, & CSR at PT KPI Dumai Unit, highlighted the company's commitment to renewable energy solutions. “We are working to build three additional PLTS units across Dumai City through our CSR development program,” Agustiawan said.
Zainur, the East Dumai District Head, praised the initiative's impact on local hydroponic farmers. “The support and socialization provided are expected to enhance knowledge and foster better use of clean energy in our district,” Zainur commented.
Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communication at PT Pertamina (Persero), reiterated the company's commitment to energy transition and environmental stewardship. “Our support for renewable energy and decarbonization aligns with our goal of achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2060 and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, especially combating climate change,” Santoso concluded.
