Minister Erick Thohir praised PLN’s rapid implementation of clean energy in Indonesia’s capital

Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), Erick Thohir, has praised PLN’s rapid efforts in bringing clean energy to the Indonesian capital (IKN). He made the recognition during a visit to IKN’s Solar Power Plant (PLTS) along with BUMN Deputy Minister Kartika Wirjoatmodjo, BUMN Ministry Secretary Rabin Indrajad Hattari and PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo.

“Many were skeptical about the development of IKN, especially its dependence on solar energy. However, today we see that PLTS is completed and producing 10 megawatts, while the current demand of IKN is only 1 megawatt,” said Erick Thohir.

Erick thanked PLN for introducing green energy to IKN through the solar power plant and emphasized the future need for more electrical capacity at IKN.

“Currently, the capacity of PLTS is sufficient, but future demand will increase. PLN must utilize the potential of Kalimantan’s green energy, including hydropower, solar power and wind. The role of PLN is crucial as it will be the heart of IKN,” Erick added.

Deputy Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Kartika Wirjoatmodjo echoed Erick’s sentiment, praising PLN for creating a green energy ecosystem in IKN. “We are proud of PLN’s success in building and operating PLTS in IKN. Capacity will continue to be expanded to serve the entire IKN ecosystem,” Kartika said.

PLN CEO Darmawan Prasodjo reaffirmed PLN’s commitment to providing reliable and environmentally friendly electricity at IKN, combining cutting-edge technology with green, smart and beautiful concepts.

“We thank Minister Erick Thohir for his guidance. We are ready to ensure that IKN becomes a green and futuristic city,” Darmawan said.

To support IKN, PLN will develop green and smart electricity solutions, and all power plants will use environmentally friendly energy and advanced digital processes. Currently, PLN Nusantara Power, in cooperation with Singapore’s Sembcorp, has built PLTS in IKN. Of the planned 50 megawatts by the end of 2024, 10 megawatts are already in operation.

Darmawan also emphasized that the entire IKN power grid will be underground, which will increase its reliability and aesthetics. PLN plans to build smart transmission, distribution and metering networks that will operate within a smart grid using 100% renewable energy.

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