Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is making significant progress in its decarbonization efforts to achieve the 2060 net-zero emissions (NZE) target. The ministry is focusing on increasing the utilization of new and renewable energy (EBT), including hydropower, solar power, geothermal, biomass, and hydrogen.
Yudo Dwinanda Priaadi, expert staff for strategic planning to the ESDM Minister, highlighted these initiatives at the Jakarta Energy Forum (JEF) 2023: Energy Transition During Global Crisis. Priaadi mentioned that the ministry aims to construct 20.9 gigawatts (GW) of EBT power plants and convert diesel-fueled power plants (PLTD) to gas or EBT power plants. He further emphasized that no new coal-fired power plants (PLTU) will be developed after 2030.
The ESDM Ministry has also implemented other decarbonization programs, such as biomass co-firing at PLTUs, geothermal exploration, mandatory use of B35 biofuel, acceleration of the electric vehicle program, development of carbon capture storage (CCS)/carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) technology, and establishment of energy performance standards.
Priaadi highlighted the ministry's commitment to supporting the development of the green industry through a renewable energy-based industrial development program. The aim is to establish industries that rely on green and clean power, utilizing renewable energy sources. He specifically mentioned the potential for green industry development in Papua, which has an estimated EBT potential of 381 GW, particularly in solar and hydro energy.
However, Priaadi emphasized that these energy transition efforts cannot be accomplished by the government alone. He called for contributions from public agencies, state-run enterprises, the private sector, academics, and community associations. Priaadi encouraged business entities to install rooftop solar power plants and urged the private sector to manufacture equipment that supports the development of EBT.
The ESDM Ministry's ongoing commitment and collaborative approach towards decarbonization and renewable energy utilization reflect Indonesia's determination to achieve its NZE target and create a sustainable future.
