Jakarta – The Indonesian government is exploring support from various parties to accelerate the safe and measurable early retirement of Steam Power Plants (PLTU). This step aligns with Presidential Regulation (Perpres) No. 112 of 2022 concerning the Acceleration of Renewable Energy Development for Electricity Supply, which includes a roadmap for the early retirement of 13 PLTUs with a total capacity of 4.8 GW.
Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), Dadan Kusdiana, revealed that the selection process for retiring PLTUs involves several important criteria, such as plant age, performance, efficiency, and emissions.
“In Presidential Regulation 112 of 2022, several criteria are regulated. We have listed 13 PLTUs based on age, performance, and emissions,” Dadan said in a written statement at The 2nd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) event in Jakarta on Wednesday, August 21.
According to Dadan, the government is trying to ensure that this early retirement step will not cause turmoil, such as an increase in the cost of electricity supply (BPP) or a shortage. Therefore, support from various parties, including developed countries, is needed to make this program a success.
“We continue to seek support for the early retirement of PLTU. This support is important so that there is no increase in BPP, electricity shortages, or state financial burden,” he explained.
Dadan also emphasized that although the list of PLTUs to be retired already exists, the final decision regarding the implementation time has not yet been determined. “We have not yet determined when these 13 PLTUs will be retired because everything must be based on economic considerations,” he added.
Several large PLTUs, such as Suralaya PLTU, are known to be included in the list of plants that will be retired sooner. This early retirement program is part of the government’s efforts to accelerate the energy transition from fossil resources, especially coal, to cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy.
With the early retirement of power plants, the government hopes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Implementing this program involves collaboration between the government, power companies, and financial institutions. Support from the international community is also key to ensuring that this energy transition can run effectively and in accordance with the country’s capabilities.
“This is a shared commitment. Support from developed countries and international partners will enable us to run this program according to our capabilities,” Dadan concluded. (Hartatik)
Banner photo source: Cirebon Electric Power
