Jakarta – The management of renewable energy as the foundation for sustainable electricity supply is crucial to achieving Indonesia’s commitment to net zero emissions (NZE) by 2060, especially hydropower and geothermal power plants, according to National Energy Council (DEN) member As Natio Lasman.
According to him, to achieve this ambitious energy transition plan, the government focuses on increasing the share of new and renewable energy, reducing the use of fossil fuels, controlling energy imports, and making a real contribution to environmental improvement.
“Most geothermal resource locations are located in undeveloped areas,” Lasman said. Thus the acceleration of clean energy, especially in the geothermal sector, will create infrastructure progress, economic growth, and provide significant labour opportunities.
He also highlighted the importance of human resources (HR) support from the surrounding community that can encourage geothermal power plant development. “Support from the surrounding community, especially those around the geothermal area, is very important because it can create conducive social conditions,” said Lasman. Geothermal power plant operations will have a positive impact on the welfare of the local community.
However, he said that one of the main challenges in accelerating the geothermal energy transition is the lack of understanding and awareness of the surrounding communities about geothermal power plants. Therefore, it is important to improve their understanding through adequate education, including the important role of universities in supporting the energy transition.
“Universities can play a key role in introducing and deepening studies related to new and renewable energy, both from technological and socio-economic aspects,” said Lasman. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: The Geothermal Power Plant project in Lahendong, North Sulawesi has the potential to become a mainstay of geothermal energy development in the energy transition to NZE by 2060. (Hartatik)
