Jakarta – Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, stated that expanding household gas network (jargas) infrastructure is part of the government’s strategy to reduce LPG imports while increasing energy efficiency. “We will implement the Jargas programme massively to reduce LPG imports, one of which is by replacing some of the use of LPG with more efficient gas,” Bahlil said when reviewing the readiness of energy infrastructure in Cilegon, Banten, in a written statement, Wednesday, 26 March.
To date, jargas connections are only available in 86 cities and regencies across Indonesia, although the potential for energy savings can reach 40 per cent compared to the use of LPG.
Based on ESDM data, the national natural gas supply shows a significant surplus, with a national DMN (net capable power) of 67,415 MW and a power reserve of 22,135 MW, or around 49%. This opens up great opportunities to expand the gas distribution network to households. The government targets developing up to 5.5 million Jargas connections by 2030.
Gas pipeline projects such as Cirebon-Semarang (Cisem) and Duri-Sei Mangkei (Dusem) are expected to deliver gas to 300,000 households along the Cisem line and 600,000 connections in the Dusem area. This, in turn, can reduce LPG imports by 550 kilotons per annum and save LPG subsidies of up to Rp5.6 trillion per year.
Suhartini, a resident of Grudo Flat in Cilegon, experienced first-hand the practical benefits of using Jargas. “If I use LPG, I must take the cylinder to the shop every time it runs out. But with Jargas, I can cook without worrying about running out of gas, and the cost is also more efficient, around Rp30,000 per month compared to Rp40,000 for two 3kg LPG refills,” he said.
The expansion of the Jargas network is also supported by the provision of adequate technical personnel and the development of a mobile application that makes it easier for users to know the location and status of the SPKLU queue, ensuring a more even charging distribution.
Through these efforts, the government is committed to supporting the national energy transition and ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply for the entire community, especially in supporting the homecoming and holiday programmes. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources/handout
