UK-based HydroWing has partnered with a subholding of Indonesia's state-owned electricity company, Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), to advance plans for Indonesia's inaugural tidal current power plant. The 10MW project, located in East Nusa Tenggara, aims to harness Indonesia's strong marine currents to generate renewable energy for the archipelago.
This development follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2022 between the two entities, setting a foundation for tidal energy exploration in Indonesia. The agreement outlined steps such as identifying suitable sites, conducting resource assessments, and engaging in front-end engineering, which have culminated in selecting East Nusa Tenggara as the project site after extensive evaluations across the country.
“Indonesia is seen as a prime market for our innovative tidal energy technology,” said Inyanga Marine Energy Group CEO Richard Parkinson. “Indonesia has amongst the best tidal potential in the world due to the throughflow of marine current from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, alongside a funnel effect between islands which strengthens tidal energy potential still further.”
HydroWing's commercial manager, Jean-Christophe Allo, underscored the significance of the East Nusa Tenggara pilot, stating, “This innovative project will contribute to the region's transition to Net Zero, delivering energy security with affordable, 24/7, and renewable energy.” HydroWing recently secured a contract to develop Southeast Asia's first tidal energy plant in Capul, Philippines, building momentum for similar projects across the region.
In the coming phases, the PLN subholding will manage local preparations, including conducting bathymetric studies, sediment sampling, and interconnection impact assessments. HydroWing will focus on feasibility and technology studies, along with developing operational and maintenance plans. Both companies will collaborate on the licensing process and perform necessary social and environmental studies.
This project aligns with Indonesia's goals to enhance renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, leveraging its geographic advantages to transition toward sustainable, 24/7 energy sources.
