In the sprawling archipelago of Indonesia, a quiet revolution is brewing, one that could reshape the nation’s energy landscape and send ripples through the global energy sector. At the heart of this transformation is hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and bolster energy security. But how feasible is this transition, and what challenges lie ahead? A recent study published in Unconventional Resources, titled “Hydrogen’s potential and policy pathways for Indonesia’s energy transition: The actor-network analysis,” sheds light on these questions, offering a nuanced view of hydrogen’s role in Indonesia’s energy future.
Led by Chrisna T. Permana, a researcher from the Urban and Regional Planning Programme at Universitas Sebelas Maret in Surakarta, the study delves into the complexities of Indonesia’s energy transition, focusing on hydrogen as a potential game-changer. The research, which combines documentary analysis, interviews, and focus group discussions, reveals a landscape shaped by two distinct actor networks: the proponents, including the national government and the state-owned oil company, and the opponents, comprising academics, businesses, and industries.
Permana’s work highlights that Indonesia’s energy transformation is currently in the planning phase, with hydrogen emerging as a key contender. “The government is actively formulating action plans and regulatory frameworks to integrate hydrogen into the energy mix,” Permana explains. However, the path is not without obstacles. Pilot programs have shown that hydrogen energy remains expensive and requires significant technological advancements.
The proponent network, driven by the national government and the state-owned oil company, sees hydrogen as a strategic opportunity to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. “They view hydrogen as a means to diversify the energy portfolio and align with global trends towards sustainable development,” Permana notes. This network is pushing for policy support, infrastructure development, and investment in hydrogen technologies.
On the other side, the opposing network, which includes academics, businesses, and industries, raises concerns about the high costs and technological hurdles associated with hydrogen. “They argue that without substantial advancements in technology and significant cost reductions, hydrogen may not be a viable option in the near future,” Permana says. This network advocates for a more cautious approach, emphasizing the need for thorough research and pilot projects before large-scale implementation.
The study’s findings, published in Unconventional Resources, which translates to “Unconventional Resources,” underscore the importance of stakeholder engagement and collaboration in shaping Indonesia’s energy future. As Permana puts it, “The energy transition is not just a technological challenge; it’s a social and political one as well. All stakeholders must be involved in the decision-making process to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition.”
The research offers valuable insights for the energy sector, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that considers both the opportunities and challenges of hydrogen. As Indonesia navigates its energy transition, the lessons learned from this study could shape future developments, not just in Indonesia, but in other countries grappling with similar energy dilemmas. The future of hydrogen in Indonesia is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the journey towards a sustainable energy future is complex, multifaceted, and filled with potential.
