A recent feasibility study published in the International Journal of Renewable Energy Development has highlighted the potential for tidal current power generation in Indonesia’s Capalulu Strait, located in North Maluku. This research, led by Alamsyah Kurniawan from the Ocean Engineering Program at the Institut Teknologi Bandung, aims to address the growing energy demands of the country, which currently relies heavily on non-renewable sources that pose environmental risks.
The study utilized hydrodynamic modeling to pinpoint two promising sites for tidal energy development, identified as Capa-2 and Capa-4. These locations were chosen due to their favorable median current speeds exceeding 1.8 meters per second and maximum speeds surpassing 3.5 meters per second. The research proposes the installation of 45 turbines at each site, utilizing the KHPS Gen5 instrument by Verdant Power, which features a 5-meter diameter turbine capable of generating a nominal power of 37 kW and a maximum of 56 kW.
If developed, the tidal power plant could produce an estimated 22 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity annually. However, the financial analysis revealed a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of IDR 5,930 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is significantly higher than the national electricity tariff of IDR 1,027.70/kWh. Kurniawan noted, “Variations in the number of turbines may not lead to a lower LCOE than the national tariff.” Despite this, the cost remains competitive with diesel-generated electricity, currently priced around IDR 5,804/kWh.
This research opens up commercial opportunities in the renewable energy sector, particularly for companies and investors interested in sustainable energy solutions. The potential for tidal energy aligns with Indonesia’s goals to diversify its energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As the country seeks to enhance its renewable energy capacity, projects like the one proposed in Capalulu Strait could play a crucial role in achieving these targets.
The findings from this study underscore the importance of exploring alternative energy sources in Indonesia’s energy mix. With ongoing advancements in technology and increasing awareness of environmental impacts, tidal current power could become a viable option for sustainable energy development in the region.
