Jakarta, INTI – The global energy crisis and the rising demand for environmentally friendly resources are driving many countries to seek innovative solutions. Indonesia has responded to this challenge with a historic step that has captured international attention. On Tuesday, September 9, 2025 PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) officially inaugurated the construction of the world’s first geothermal-based green hydrogen pilot plant in Ulubelu, Lampung. The project utilizes anion exchange membrane electrolyzer technology integrated with geothermal energy an innovative approach to accelerating the transition toward a green economy. The facility not only offers a solution to reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also serves as a tangible commitment by the government to achieving the Net Zero Emission 2060 target.
A Strategic Momentum for Clean Energy
The government emphasized that this project marks an important milestone in the downstream development of renewable energy. Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of BKPM, Todotua Pasaribu, in his remarks, highlighted that the construction aligns with President Prabowo’s Asta Cita, particularly the goals of strengthening national independence through clean energy and promoting downstream industries based on natural resources.
“This green energy pilot plant is concrete proof of the government’s commitment to achieving Net Zero Emission by 2060,” he stated.
Production Targets and Economic Benefits
PGE aims to produce around 100 kilograms of green hydrogen per day by the end of 2026. The output will be used not only for internal needs within the Pertamina Group but also supplied to strategic partners, including Toyota, which is focusing on developing eco-friendly hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Green hydrogen is expected to serve as a new foundation for a sustainable economy ranging from use as transportation fuel, reducing industrial emissions, to becoming a raw material for high-value ammonia production. According to Deputy Minister Todotua, downstreaming powered by green energy will act as a catalyst to make national industrialization more efficient and competitive.
National Synergy and Impact for Lampung
This project stands as proof of the importance of synergy between the government, state-owned enterprises, private companies, and international partners. Beyond the energy sector, the facility will also generate socio-economic benefits for Lampung, including job creation, enhancement of local workforce skills, and boosting regional economic growth.
Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani described the project as a new symbol for the region. “In the future, Lampung will not only be known as a coffee hub but also as a producer of clean energy,” he said.
Pertamina’s President Commissioner, Mochamad Iriawan, added, “Ulubelu is living proof that environmentally friendly energy can grow from our own land and be passed down to future generations.”
Conclusion
The construction of the green hydrogen pilot plant in Ulubelu marks a new chapter in Indonesia’s energy journey. By harnessing geothermal resources, Indonesia is not only strengthening its position in the global energy transition but also demonstrating leadership in green innovation. This project is expected to become a driver of sustainable economic growth while underscoring the nation’s commitment to a zero-emission future.
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