Semarang, February 6, 2025 – Central Java plays a crucial role in national economic development, with its rapidly growing industrial sector. According to data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the province contributed 8.24 percent to the national economy in Q3 2024, with the manufacturing sector dominating Central Java’s economic structure at approximately 33.31 percent. However, amid the challenges of the climate crisis and the urgent need for sustainable energy, advancing green industries has become a strategic imperative. Energy Transformation
Executive Director of the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), Fabby Tumiwa, emphasized that transitioning to more environmentally friendly industries will not only mitigate negative environmental impacts but also enhance the region’s competitiveness at both national and global levels. Therefore, the new leadership in Central Java is expected to place greater focus on implementing green industry policies.
“One of the key measures to enhance competitiveness is increasing the use of renewable energy in the industrial sector, such as solar and biomass energy, which have significant potential in this region. By doing so, industries in Central Java can operate more efficiently, reduce carbon emissions, and create a cleaner and healthier environment for the community,” Fabby stated during the IESR Media Gathering on Thursday (6/2/2025).
Fabby mentioned, given the concentration of industries in the region, the adoption of solar power plants (solar PV) in the industrial sector could significantly boost the share of clean energy in Central Java’s energy mix. Moreover, the Central Java Province is home to major solar PV manufacturing companies such as PT Lesso and PT Trina Mas Agra Indonesia, which should be better utilized in the domestic market.
“Local governments must take a more proactive role in promoting renewable energy development. This not only aligns with the national target of achieving 8% economic growth but also supports climate change mitigation efforts. Additionally, waste management should be prioritized, as several areas in Central Java are already facing a waste emergency,” Fabby added.
Meanwhile, Rizqi Prasetyo, Subnational Coordinator for the Sustainable Energy Access Program at IESR, highlighted the critical role of mass media in disseminating information on energy transition and environmental issues. According to IESR’s monitoring, media coverage on energy transition and environmental topics in Central Java has increased significantly, peaking in 2023 with 11,796 reports. Key issues dominating the news included the development of solar power plants, such as PLN’s floating solar projects and private sector rooftop solar installations, biomass and vehicle electrification investments in solar module manufacturing and biomass plants, as well as community and school participation in clean energy programs—demonstrating a growing awareness of renewable energy.
“While the majority of media coverage has been positive, there are still negative narratives that reflect the challenges in developing alternative energy in Central Java. These include the uneven implementation of renewable energy initiatives across regions and various technical and policy-related obstacles,” Rizqi said.
