Jakarta – PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE), a subsidiary of PT Pertamina (Persero), has begun construction of the Ulubelu Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant in Lampung. According to a statement released by PGE on Tuesday, September 9, this facility is the first in the world to integrate Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyser technology with geothermal energy as its primary source of electricity.
“This is a milestone, not only for Pertamina, but also for the direction of global energy transition. We have proven that geothermal-based green hydrogen technology can be applied in practice,” said Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri.
Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), Yuliot Tanjung, considers Pertamina’s move to be a form of fundamental business transformation, where the integration of geothermal power plants (PLTP) with the environmentally friendly hydrogen industry paves the way for an era of clean energy.
“Green hydrogen is a low-emission energy source that will disrupt fossil fuels. With more alternatives available, people can choose more efficient and environmentally friendly energy sources,” said Yuliot.
He emphasised that the success of this project could serve as an essential model for the development of green hydrogen in Indonesia while accelerating the energy transition in line with the government’s targets.
USD 3 million investment, operations begin in 2026
The Ulubelu Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant is targeted to be operational in 2026 with an investment value of around USD 3 million. In the initial stage, the green hydrogen produced will be used for market testing, especially in the transportation and industrial sectors.
In addition to being a production facility, this project is also designed to be a centre for technological learning and commercial feasibility testing, including studies on product quality, market potential, and future business models.
According to Simon Mantiri, the development of green hydrogen aligns with the Pertamina Group’s dual growth strategy, which aims to strengthen its core business while building a low-carbon energy portfolio. “This project will become the foundation for hydrogen regulations, standards, and business models in Indonesia. We hope to replicate this new energy ecosystem in various other regions,” explained Simon.
By utilising Ulubelu’s stable and clean geothermal energy, this facility is believed to reduce emissions while affirming Indonesia’s position as a pioneer in the development of green hydrogen worldwide.
Pertamina emphasised that this initiative is not merely a pilot project, but rather a long-term strategic step toward building a reliable renewable energy ecosystem. “The development of green hydrogen is a tangible manifestation of our commitment to becoming a world-class clean energy company,” Simon stated. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Image generated by OpenAI’s DALL·E via ChatGPT (2025)
