The geothermal power plant projects have the potential to become a mainstay in the energy transition from fossil energy to new and renewable energy (NRE). Member of the National Energy Council (DEN), Satya Yudha, explains that geothermal industry indeed requires a long time in its exploration process and production, but the result can help for the future.
"Global urgency in developing clean and green energy makes geothermal energy the key to achieving the target of developing a green economy through green energy and green industry, as well as to support for Indonesia towards Net Zero Emissions (NZE) 2060. For example, the use of geothermal energy to generate electrical energy," said Satya Yudha on Friday, March 17, 2023.
Based on data from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), throughout 2022, electricity consumption per capita in Indonesia reached 1,173 kilowatt hours (KWh), an increase of 4.45% compared to 1,123 kWh in 2021.
Then, the New Renewable Energy (NRE) in the national energy mix until 2022 was recorded at 14.11%, increased 13.65% from the realization in 2021. The installed capacity of power plants in Indonesia reached 81.2 gigawatts (GW) in 2022, with Gas Power Plant (PLTG/GU/MG) of 21.6 GW and NRE power plants of 12.5 GW (6.6 GW of Hydroelectric Power Plant (PLTA), 2.3 GW of Geothermal Power Plant (PLTP), and 3 GW of bioenergy).
Indonesia has the second largest geothermal installed capacity in the world and has utilized 2,175.7 MWe, or 9%, of its geothermal power plants. This number is expected to overtake the United States, which is currently ranked first in the world. The potential for electricity generated by geothermal can reach 24 GW, so it will not give additional burden to the government in electricity production because the price is competitive.
Operating in six areas, PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGEO) currently manages 13 Geothermal Working Areas (WKP), contributing 82% of the total installed geothermal capacity in Indonesia. A total of 672 MW is operated and managed directly by PGEO and 1,205 MW is managed under a Joint Operation Contract scenario.
"PGEO's production capacity will be increased to 1,272 MW in 2027, using funds from IPO. Until now, PGE has succeeded in supplying electricity to 2.08 million homes in Indonesia," said Corporate Secretary of PGEO, Muhammad Baron, on Friday, March 17, 2023.
As a subsidiary of Pertamina Group, PGEO has a strong track record of maintaining effective and consistent geothermal power plant operations.
PGEO's expertise in reservoir management and sustainable steam supply, coupled with partnerships with reputable and renowned business partners, ensures high operating standards. In addition, PGEO excels in O&M through the implementation of management systems and digital technology.
"Consistent work with independent experts results in a sustainable competency development for all O&M personnel," said Baron.
