Semarang – A total of 15,000 houses in Central Java Province are now enjoying free electricity connections through the Government’s New Electricity Installation Assistance Programme (BPBL) through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR).
The BPBL programme is the government’s effort to provide electric lighting assistance to poor households, thereby increasing access to electricity in the area.
According to the Director General of Electricity of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Jisman Hutajulu, under this programme, Banyumas Regency will receive a quota of 2,495 household connections spread across 26 sub-districts. As of 29 September 2023, 1,431 households in 22 sub-districts in Banyumas have been connected to electricity.
“In addition to increasing the electrification ratio, the BPBL Programme is also expected to improve the standard of living and independence of beneficiary communities,” Hutajulu said in an official statement. By having access to electricity, he said, the community is expected to no longer depend on electricity sources from neighbours, thus reducing the risk of irregularities that can harm the electricity network.
One of the beneficiaries, Amsini (44), from Ketanda Village, expressed her gratitude for this programme. Now, Amsini has access to electricity. Previously, she had to connect electricity from her mother’s house next door. “We take turns paying for the electricity,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Eni (51), a housewife, also feels lucky to receive this free electricity assistance and hopes that this programme can continue to benefit the wider community.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Commission VII of the House of Representatives Sugeng Suparwoto emphasised the importance of creating equitable and quality access to electricity for all levels of society. Electricity is not only used for lighting homes but also a driving force for development by opening up new economic opportunities, improving the quality of education, and improving the community’s quality of life. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR) is rolling out the New Electricity Installation Assistance Programme (BPBL). (Source: Ministry of EMR)
