Jakarta, INTI - PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is strengthening the role of bioenergy as a key component of Indonesia's energy diversification strategy, aiming to accelerate the country's transition toward cleaner energy while enhancing long-term energy security.
PLN EPI Director of Biomass Hokkop Situngkir said the company continues to expand the use of renewable energy sources, including biomass, biochar, compressed biomethane gas (CBG), and waste-to-energy technologies, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
He emphasized that stronger collaboration among PLN, investors, local partners, government institutions, regulators, academia, and the private sector is essential to accelerate sustainable bioenergy development across Indonesia.
As a subholding of PLN, PLN EPI not only secures coal and natural gas supplies but is also expanding its primary energy portfolio by increasing the contribution of renewable energy, particularly bioenergy.
Nearly all diesel power plants have already adopted B40 biodiesel, while coal-fired power plants are progressively implementing biomass co-firing to lower carbon emissions.
Beyond biomass, the company is also developing compressed biomethane gas (CBG), biochar, refuse-derived fuel (RDF), biofuels, and bioethanol as part of its broader decarbonization strategy for Indonesia's power sector.
Indonesia Holds Significant Biomass Potential
According to Hokkop, Indonesia has an estimated biomass potential of 83.4 million tons annually, sourced from agricultural residues, plantation waste, forestry by-products, and municipal solid waste.
He explained that maximizing these resources is essential for expanding alternative energy supplies beyond fossil fuels. As Indonesia continues its clean energy transition, energy diversification will play a crucial role in maintaining reliable electricity supplies while supporting the country's national emissions reduction targets.
Under Indonesia's 2025–2029 Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL), bioenergy is expected to contribute an additional 0.61 gigawatts of generating capacity through biomass co-firing, biomass power plants, and biogas projects.
Despite its strong potential, Hokkop acknowledged that renewable energy development still faces significant challenges, particularly the substantial investment required to expand electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure.
He stressed that the energy transition should serve as a practical solution rather than an economic burden. According to him, Indonesia's shift toward cleaner energy must proceed gradually while maintaining reliable electricity services, affordable energy prices, and national economic competitiveness.
Conclusion
By expanding bioenergy utilization and encouraging multi-stakeholder collaboration, PLN EPI aims to strengthen Indonesia's renewable energy mix while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The initiative supports the country's long-term goals of achieving a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable energy system.
Read more: PLN EMI Presents Decarbonization and Green Energy Solutions for the Industrial Sector