Jakarta, INTI - PTPN IV PalmCo has partnered with Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) to develop palm-based gasoline, or biogasoline, as part of efforts to strengthen renewable energy and enhance Indonesia’s energy independence.
Research and Industry Collaboration
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by PalmCo President Director Jatmiko K. Santosa and ITS Rector Bambang Pramujati in Surabaya on Sunday, April 19, witnessed by Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman.
Jatmiko stated that the collaboration is part of the company’s transformation strategy to strengthen downstream development in the palm oil industry.
“Partnering with ITS represents a concrete step for PalmCo in integrating technological research into industrial-scale applications,” he said.
The collaboration covers renewable energy development, technology utilization, and the creation of a zero-waste ecosystem within plantation operations.
Advancing National Energy Security
Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasized that palm-based gasoline development should move swiftly toward industrialization.
“We will begin with small-scale industry, and if successful, scale it up immediately. This is a tangible step toward national energy security,” he stated.
Meanwhile, ITS Rector Bambang Pramujati highlighted the importance of research downstreaming to ensure tangible industrial impact.
“We aim to ensure that academic research delivers real-world benefits,” he noted.
From a technical perspective, ITS researchers are developing technologies to improve the efficiency of converting palm oil into fuel compatible with existing vehicle engines.
The collaboration is planned to run for five years, with support from ITS and the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure readiness for mass production.
This initiative is expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels while strengthening the development of clean energy based on domestic resources.
Conclusion
The collaboration between PTPN IV PalmCo and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember highlights a strategic step toward advancing Indonesia’s clean energy transition. By integrating research with industrial application, the development of palm-based biogasoline has the potential to strengthen energy security while promoting sustainable use of domestic resources. Continued collaboration between academia, industry, and government will be crucial to ensure scalability and long-term impact.
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