Jakarta – PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE), the upstream sub-holding of Pertamina, discovered 1.8 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas resources in Central Sulawesi, after seven years of exploration, according to PHE in a press release Thursday, December 26.
PHE President Director Chalid Said Salim said the discovery, equivalent to nearly 320 million barrels of oil (MMBOE), was the result of a series of exploration efforts in a number of structures in the region.
“The discovery of gas in the Wolai-East Wolai structure, Morea, and most recently in the Tedong structure proves our commitment to continue to seek and develop potential oil and gas resources for national energy security,” said Chalid.
The Tedong-001 structure is a highlight with an in-place gas potential of 875.47 billion cubic feet (BCFG) or 151.13 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMBOE). The discovery was validated in late 2024, adding confidence to the prospect of gas resources in Eastern Indonesia.
Chalid said that this success cannot be separated from the support of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and SKK Migas. “We appreciate the solid collaboration between the government, regulators, and Pertamina. This is clear evidence that oil and gas exploration in Indonesia still has great potential,” he said.
Supporting energy transition
Chalid emphasised that this discovery will contribute significantly to Indonesia’s energy diversification. “Natural gas is an environmentally friendly transition energy. This discovery will strengthen national gas production, support economic growth, and fulfill domestic energy needs,” he explained.
According to Chalid, PHE continues to conduct seismic surveys, joint studies, and exploration drilling in Eastern Indonesia to explore other energy potentials.
PHE also confirmed its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The company has implemented an ISO 37001:2016-based Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) to ensure its operations are free from corrupt practices.
The successful exploration in Central Sulawesi is the foundation for PHE to continue investing in upstream oil and gas operations. “This is the beginning of a long journey. We are committed to continue contributing to creating national energy security through innovative and sustainable measures,” Chalid concluded. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Pertamina
