Jakarta – PT PLN (Persero) is collaborating with PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (SMI) and the French company Hydrogen de France SA (HDF Energy) to explore the utilisation and financing of hydrogen as part of the transition strategy to clean energy.
The agreement was contained in a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, 28 May, and was witnessed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron.
PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo stated that the cooperation was not just a technical agreement, but an important symbol of global collaboration in addressing the climate crisis.
“This strategic collaboration is a catalyst to accelerate the green hydrogen ecosystem in Indonesia. This is not just about technology, but also about collective leadership in championing a zero carbon emissions future,” Mr Darmawan said.
Through this partnership, PLN, SMI and HDF Energy will conduct an in-depth study on the utilisation of hydrogen in the electricity sector. The focus is not only on the technical aspects of clean energy utilisation but also on exploring innovative financing schemes, investment risk mitigation instruments, and human resource capacity-building programmes.
Mathieu Geze, HDF Energy’s Asia Director and President Director of HDF Energy Indonesia, said he is ready to share his experience and technology from France to support the development of green hydrogen in Indonesia.
“We want to prove that hydrogen is not just a future solution, but a real opportunity today. With our technology, we are committed to delivering clean and stable electricity and building a strong hydrogen supply chain, including for the marine sector and other industries,” explains Mathieu.
The challenge of financing future energy
Green hydrogen, generated from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, is believed to be one of the key components in a just and sustainable energy transition. However, the main challenge is the significant financing requirements and the need for immature technology and infrastructure development.
SMI President Director Edwin Syahruzad emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing these challenges.
“We are ready to act as a facilitator of sustainable financing. We will prepare a blended finance scheme and risk mitigation so that investment in the hydrogen ecosystem is feasible and attractive to investors,” said Edwin.
According to him, SMI’s involvement in the project also reflects the government’s commitment to supporting green infrastructure development in line with the Net Zero Emissions by 2060 agenda.
The direct presence of the two heads of state in the signing of the MoU emphasises the importance of the energy diplomacy dimension of the cooperation. French President Emmanuel Macron, in his speech, referred to this cooperation as a concrete form of green diplomacy that supports the global decarbonisation agenda.
Meanwhile, President Prabowo stated that the Indonesian government is open to strategic cooperation that strengthens national energy security and aligns with the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: A total of 21 agreement documents were signed, presented and announced in the presence of President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto and President Emmanuel Macron at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, 28 May 2025. (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Muchlis Jr)
