Indonesia is making waves in the renewable energy sector, and it’s not just a drop in the bucket. The newly minted administration under President Prabowo Subianto is rolling out an ambitious plan to develop a staggering 75 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power over the next 15 years. This commitment, articulated by Hashim Djojohadikusumo, the country’s climate envoy, during the Conference of the Parties summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, signals a robust pivot toward cleaner energy sources in a nation that has long been dominated by coal.
Djojohadikusumo laid it out clearly: “There will be 100GW of new energy that will be implemented in the new administration in the next 15 years, of which 75% or 75GW will be renewable energy.” This bold statement is more than just political rhetoric; it’s a roadmap for Indonesia’s energy future. The plan encompasses a diverse array of technologies, including solar, hydro, geothermal, and even the controversial nuclear power. However, the details surrounding the remaining 25GW remain shrouded in mystery, leaving many to speculate about the administration’s full energy strategy.
Currently, Indonesia’s power capacity exceeds 90GW, with coal accounting for over half of that figure. Renewables, on the other hand, barely scrape together less than 15%. This stark reality puts the country in a precarious position, especially as it stands among the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters. The urgency to transition away from fossil fuels is palpable, especially with the commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Phasing out coal-fired power plants is not just a goal; it’s a necessity for Indonesia to mitigate the severe environmental impact it has had over the years.
The state-owned utility, Perusahaan Listrik Negara, is already gearing up for this transition by designing a new green transmission line that will stretch an impressive 70,000 kilometers. The CEO, Darmawan Prasodjo, has emphasized the importance of this infrastructure in supporting the ambitious renewable energy goals. It’s a clear signal that the administration is not just talking the talk but is prepared to walk the walk.
Moreover, the long-term reforestation project aimed at restoring 12.7 million hectares of degraded forests adds another layer to Indonesia’s green ambitions. This initiative, backed by both domestic and foreign funding, highlights the collaborative effort needed to tackle climate change. The Bezos Earth Fund, with its $10 billion green funding initiative, has expressed interest in supporting this reforestation effort, showcasing how international stakeholders are eager to invest in Indonesia’s green transition.
Last year’s announcement of a $20 billion investment fund for decarbonization under the Just Energy Transition Partnership, led by the US and Japan, further underscores the global interest in Indonesia’s energy landscape. The combination of domestic initiatives and foreign investments could pave the way for a transformative shift in how Indonesia approaches energy production and consumption.
All eyes are on Indonesia as it embarks on this ambitious journey. The success of these initiatives could not only reshape the nation’s energy profile but also set a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges. As the world watches, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and the potential for innovation and change is immense.
