The Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Ministry of Indonesia recently unveiled its plans to boost the utilization of new and renewable energy (EBT) in the country. According to the ministry, the EBT usage in 2022 reached 300 megawatts (MW), representing 0.03 percent of the total EBT potential of 3,600 MW. In light of this, Director of New and Renewable Energy at the Ministry, Andriah Feby Misna, emphasized the need to prioritize the adoption of renewable energy sources to achieve energy transition goals.
During the Solar Panel System Launching event held at the central office of the Blue Bird Group in Jakarta, Misna stated, “Therefore, we clearly need to pursue EBT use in efforts to achieve the target of energy transition.” The ESDM Ministry has set an ambitious target of reducing emissions by up to 358 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in the energy sector by 2030.
Significant progress has already been made, as Misna reported a reduction of 95 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in emissions by 2022. The ministry expects to further curb emissions by up to 116 million tons by 2023. To expedite the energy transition process, the Indonesian government aims to realize 23 percent of the EBT mix by 2025. Currently, the country's energy mix comprises 12.3 percent renewable energy sources.
Moreover, the government has set its sights on achieving complete energy independence through EBT sources by 2060. This ambitious goal entails generating approximately 708 gigawatts (GW) of electricity from renewable sources. Of this total, an impressive 400 GW (60 percent) will be generated from battery-powered solar panels. Indonesia possesses immense solar energy potential, with solar panels estimated to have the capacity to produce around 32.5 GW of electricity. However, as of May 2023, only 100 MW of electricity had been generated through solar panel installations, highlighting the vast untapped potential.
Misna expressed optimism that by 2023, solar panels would generate a total of 900 MW of electricity, with the goal of reaching 3.6 GW by 2025. These targets underline Indonesia's determination to harness renewable energy sources and pave the way for a sustainable and greener future.
The Indonesian government's commitment to renewable energy development signifies a crucial step toward reducing carbon emissions, combating climate change, and ensuring long-term energy security. By diversifying the energy mix and maximizing the potential of solar power, Indonesia is poised to become a global leader in renewable energy adoption and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.
