Gianyar, May 21, 2025 – The development of renewable energy has become a crucial step in Bali’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions (NZE) by 2045. Long celebrated for its natural beauty and rich culture, the Island of the Gods is now transforming into a pioneer of clean energy transition in Indonesia. The growing urgency to reduce dependence on fossil fuels is driven by the need for a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and equitable energy system for all.
To closely observe the renewable energy advancements being implemented across industrial and community sectors, the Bali Provincial Office of Manpower and Energy and Mineral Resources, in collaboration with the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), is organizing the “Jelajah Energi Bali” (Bali Energy Exploration) from May 20–24, 2025. On the second day of this program, participants visited Keliki and Puhu Villages—living examples of energy-independent communities where local wisdom meets technological innovation to realize a greener and more sustainable future for Bali.
Solar Power Fuels Rice Fields and Waste Management
Cool air and a gentle breeze welcomed the Jelajah Energi Bali delegation as they arrived in Keliki Village, located in Tegallalang District, Gianyar Regency. Situated roughly 31 kilometers from Denpasar, the journey takes just under an hour. The village offers a calming atmosphere, with narrow roads lined by lush trees, expansive green rice fields, and a tranquil environment that invites visitors to linger. Beyond being a charming tourist destination, Keliki stands as a tangible example of grassroots clean energy implementation.
I Wayan Sumada, Head of BUMDes Yowana Bakti Keliki, explained that the village comprises seven subaks (traditional Balinese irrigation systems), which now utilize solar power plants (PLTS) to irrigate their rice fields including Subak Tain Kambing, Subak Uma Desa Sebali, and Subak Lauh Batu, which spans 32 hectares.
“Thanks to this clean energy program, we’re able to save on water-related costs at the temple. At our Subak temple, ceremonies during harvest season can take place more than three or four times,” said Sumada.
He noted that the solar panels are especially beneficial during the dry season, from May to September, when rainfall is scarce and river water levels drop. Despite the conditions, Keliki residents can still irrigate their fields by pumping water from deep wells.
“We have a well 50 meters deep to irrigate the rice fields. The water is potable, as we’ve conducted sanitation testing. During dry months, we implement a rotation system Group One today, Group Two tomorrow. With solar power, we no longer have to damage water channels or fight over limited resources,” he added.
Beyond solar-powered irrigation, Keliki Village also operates an integrated waste management initiative, known as the TPS3R (Reuse, Reduce, Recycle Waste Processing Facility). Launched in 2020 with support from state-owned enterprise CSR programs and facilitated by Yayasan Bumi Sasmaya through the Merah Putih Hijau (MPH) program, the initiative reflects the community’s strong environmental commitment.
“The TPS3R handles waste from 90 households in Keliki Village, with a daily volume ranging from 500 to 1,000 kilograms. The waste originates from homes, food stalls, restaurants, and even ceremonial offerings such as palm leaves, flowers, and other organic materials,” said Sumada.
According to him, residents are accustomed to sorting waste into three categories: organic, inorganic, and residual. Sorting begins at home before waste is collected by TPS3R personnel.
“Larger organic waste is first shredded, then composted on-site using a layered method: dry waste at the base, followed by wet waste, in alternating layers up to six layers. After sitting for two weeks, the pile is turned from bottom to top over a 12 week period. In the sixth week, we spray the pile with eco-enzyme to accelerate decomposition. The resulting compost is distributed for free to local farmers,” explained Sumada.
Inorganic waste like plastics and metals is sorted, collected, and sold to recyclers, while residual waste that cannot be recycled is sent to a final disposal site (TPA).
Turning Livestock Waste into Biogas
As the Jelajah Energi Bali delegation arrived in Puhu Village, they were greeted by crisp mountain air, birdsong, and lush greenery in every direction. The villagers’ warm hospitality added to the serene ambiance typical of rural Bali. Puhu is not just any village it is recognized as a biogas pilot community, where clean energy harmonizes with local traditions.
Amid the homes, one story stood out that of I Ketut Sepot, a local pig farmer who has turned livestock waste into a source of energy. “Back in 2008, a neighbor built a biogas system at home. I was curious how he managed to turn animal waste into fuel, so I went there, learned the system, and decided to do the same. It was more cost-effective than just dumping the waste in the garden,” said Sepot.
His curiosity led him to construct a basic biogas digester behind his house. With an initial investment of around IDR 5 million, he dug a tank 2 meters deep, 2.5 meters long, and 1.5 meters wide. His six pigs became the primary “suppliers” for his energy needs.
Initially, Sepot had to transport the waste manually. But over time, he upgraded the system. Now, waste flows directly from the pigsty to the digester through a pipe, making the process far more efficient.
“Back then, the digester was at the same level as the pen, and collecting waste was a hassle. Now the pigsty is elevated, and the waste flows directly into the tank. It’s more effective, and the gas output is better,” he said.
His modest setup can produce enough gas to power two stoves simultaneously for up to 1.5 hours. Refueling takes around 30 minutes. Remarkably, the combustion produces no unpleasant odor, and the entire process is clean and safe.
“We can cook for 1.5 hours without interruption and without any smell. It’s completely safe. If it runs out, we wait about 30 minutes, and it’s ready again,” he added.
However, the system’s benefits are currently limited to his household. The cost of construction and limited tank capacity are major barriers to wider adoption.
“We can’t distribute the gas to neighbors because of the small capacity. But I continue to use it for myself and my family,” he explained.
To Sepot, pig waste is not trash it’s opportunity. Besides generating gas for cooking, the leftover sludge from the digester is used as fertilizer for his garden. He cleans out the tank every three months to ensure optimal performance.
