Increase Collaboration and Investment for Renewable Energy Utilization in Central Java

 

Fabby Tumiwa, Direktur Eksekutif IESR dalam acara Forum Akselerasi Energi Terbarukan Jawa Tengah (19/12).
Fabby Tumiwa, Direktur Eksekutif IESR dalam acara Forum Akselerasi Energi Terbarukan Jawa Tengah (19/12)

Semarang, December 19, 2023 – The Central Java Provincial Government is seeking to encourage collaboration and synergy to accelerate the energy transition and achieve the target of a 21.32% renewable energy mix in the region by 2025, as set in its Regional Energy General Plan (RUED). However, the renewable energy mix in the region only reached 15.76% in 2022, according to data from the Central Java Energy and Mineral Resources Agency (ESDM). With only two years left to achieve the target, the Central Java Provincial Government must pursue the remaining 5.56% of the renewable energy mix.

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has been collaborating with Central Java since 2019 to speed up the implementation of renewable energy in the region. To accelerate the transition towards renewable energy and attain the RUED target, it is necessary to establish supportive conditions such as regulations, community initiatives, public-private partnerships, and foster investment. IESR believes that the regional funding capability must be enhanced to achieve the RUED target and attract more renewable energy investment.

“Central Java has a vast potential for renewable energy, including 194 GW of solar energy and 3.5 MW of wind energy. To accelerate the utilization of these resources, several measures need to be taken, such as disseminating information and building capacity related to renewable energy development, promoting investment ecosystems that prioritize green funding, and setting up monitoring, reporting, and evaluation platforms to encourage public participation,” said Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of IESR at the Central Java Renewable Energy Acceleration Forum (19/12).  

During the same event, IESR announced a partnership with the Central Java Province Investment and One Stop Integrated Service (DPMPTSP) Office to promote green investment, especially in renewable energy in Central Java.

IESR meresmikan kerja sama dengan Dinas Penanaman Modal dan Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu (DPMPTSP) Provinsi Jawa Tengah untuk mendorong investasi hijau dan khususnya energi terbarukan di Jawa Tengah

Sakina Rosellasari, the Head of Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service (DPMPTSP) in Central Java Province, has recently announced that her office has been actively promoting green investment in the region. To achieve this, they have taken several measures, such as compiling a list of investment-ready projects (known as Investment Project Ready to Offer or IPRO) that focus on circular economy projects such as waste treatment, mini-hydro, sustainable product processing, and waste processing into refused derived fuel (RDF). The DPMPTSP has also created promotional videos, met with various stakeholders, and signed cooperation agreements to encourage green investment in Central Java.

“The preparation of IPRO is important to attract potential investors and provide confidence that Central Java Province is the right location to invest. The IPRO in Central Java covers three sectors: infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. Within the infrastructure sector is the construction of the Banjaran and Logawa mini hydro power plants in Banyumas Regency and the Tegal city B3 medical waste treatment and industrial development,” Sakina said.

The central government has issued Presidential Regulation No.11/2023 through the Ministry of Home Affairs. This regulation empowers local governments to manage and provide biomass, biogas, and new renewable energy. District and city governments have been granted the authority to support renewable energy development through Kepmendagri 900.1.15.5-1317 of 2023. Some examples of the district and city governments’ authority include waste management, provision of road equipment on district/city roads, empowerment of small fishermen in district/city areas, and provision of electrical/lighting installation components in office buildings.

Tavip Rubiyanto, an Associate Expert Policy Analyst for Energy and Mineral Resources Substance at the Directorate SUPD I of the Directorate General of Regional Development for the Ministry of Home Affairs, states that the development of renewable energy by regions is crucial to achieving the national renewable energy mix target of 23% by 2025.

Tavip explained that the rules regarding the discretion of regional authority in the management of new renewable energy will be effective from 2024. He hoped the regions would start budgeting to achieve these targets. Matters related to regional authority will be financed through the APBD.

To achieve the renewable energy targets at the regional level, Boedyo Dharmawan, Head of the Energy and Mineral Resources Office of Central Java Province, emphasized the need for cooperation between sectors. Coordination between the ESDM, environment, transportation, and planning agencies must be strengthened.

Boedyo Dharmawan also shared Central Java’s achievements in renewable energy, exceeding the annual target of 2022. These achievements include PLTS with a total capacity of around 25 MW, 6 MW micro hydropower plants (PLTMH), 31 MW mini hydro power plants (PLTM), and 322 MW hydropower plants (PLTA).

“Not only in terms of regulation, the government is also committed at the implementation level. To succeed in the energy transition towards the renewable energy era, the provincial government is also trying to control greenhouse gas emissions through the battery-based electric motor vehicle program,” said Boedyo.

Community initiatives that adopt renewable energy can significantly contribute to increasing the renewable energy mix in the region. This initiative can play an essential role in advancing the community’s welfare. Yanto, Head of Banyuroto Village, Sawangan District, Magelang Regency, and an Energy Independent Village, recognizes this fact.

Yanto explained that with a population of 930 cows and the assistance of various parties from the government, community, and non-governmental organizations, his village had developed around 34 biogas processing units from 2023 to 2027. This biogas helps to save the kitchen needs of 44 households in his village. Additionally, biogas can be used to fuel lighting lamps (petromak). The solid and liquid waste from cow dung is also helpful for organic fertilizer, which can fertilize agricultural soil.

Accelerating Renewable Energy in Central Java

Central Java plans to further develop renewable energy, with the Institute for Essential Services Reform actively collaborating on long-term planning. The Institute, together with the Central Java Government, organizes forums and activities such as “Central Java Renewable Energy Acceleration” to deepen understanding and encourage multi-stakeholder participation in the region’s energy transition.

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Go Greener: Central Java’s Efforts to Attract Sustainable Investment

Jateng Investment

Magelang, August, 21-22 2023 – Central Java aims to attract green investment of up to IDR 65 trillion by 2023 (based on data from the Ministry of Investment /Investment Coordinating Board, BPKPM) to encourage sustainable economic growth and to achieve the target of net zero emissions (NZE). For that, green investment must prioritize environmental friendliness and commit to educating the local workforce, transferring technology, and carrying out products downstream. Additionally, sustainable aspects must be considered when preparing green investment projects.

In line with efforts to increase the regional sustainable economy, the Provincial Government of Central Java, through the One-Stop Investment and Services Agency (DPMPTSP), collaborated with Bank Indonesia Representatives for Central Java Province to organize the Central Java Investment Business Forum (CJIBF), 2023. The forum was designed to foster collaboration between the government, Bank Indonesia, and business actors to increase investment growth and promote sustainable economic development in Central Java. The CJIBF allowed investors to invest in the region, resulting in an investment interest of IDR 18.5 trillion.

Ganjar Pranowo, Governor of Central Java, said the realization of green investment does not only focus on investment but also needs to build an investment ecosystem both at the community and regional government levels. If the investment ecosystem is established effectively, the government must support it by facilitating licensing and services, providing incentives such as prioritized services, commitment, compliance, and enhancing human resources or a skilled workforce in the Central Java regions.

“The Provincial Government of Central Java has a significant initiative to improve human resources and encourage green investment. One of their plans is to construct vocational or vocational high schools and establish special departments focusing on renewable energy,” said Ganjar Pranowo.

Ganjar emphasized the importance of aligning the needs of workers in the business and industrial sectors with the curriculum and learning in vocational high schools. This would require a concerted effort by the government to ensure that the local workforce is trained according to the specific requirements of companies, enabling them to remain competitive.

On the other hand, the Expert Staff for Macroeconomics at the Ministry of Investment/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), Imam Soejoedi, mentioned that Central Java Province is a highly favorable location for investment. The CJIBF event aims to strengthen Central Java’s investment opportunities and economic competitiveness, leading to sustainable economic growth.

Imam believes investors see investment in Central Java (Central Java) as more effective and efficient. Central Java also has a low incremental capital-output ratio (ICOR); this indicates that the lower the ICOR, the more efficient investment will be. The success of investment in Central Java is also supported by investors’ trust in the local government.

“Numerous investors have invested in Central Java, which houses the largest glass factory in Southeast Asia, the Nestle industry, the battery industry in Batang, and the food industry in Kendal. Trust plays a crucial role in investment. Even if the location is exceptional, if investors lack trust in the central and regional governments, they may relocate to other provinces or regions,” said Imam.

Meanwhile, Hendri Saparini, Founder and Senior Economist at CORE Indonesia, said Central Java should prepare to compete in green and sustainable investment on both national and international levels. The shift towards green investment should be matched with education and fostering an investment ecosystem at the community and local government levels to ensure sustainability and global impact.

“Central Java requires a green roadmap, which the district/city legislature should back. Additionally, it is crucial to strongly commit to incentivizing companies and investors to advance green investments in Central Java. This will help to attract investors and make investing in Central Java more accessible,” explained Hendri Saparini.

Encouraging the Growth of Renewable Energy Investments in Central Java

Semarang, July 4, 2023 – Recognizing that renewable energy investments play a crucial role in addressing climate change and achieving the Paris Agreement, the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), in collaboration with the Government of Central Java Province, held the ‘Central Java Renewable Energy Investment Forum 2023’ event. This activity is a platform to promote the potential of renewable energy investments in Central Java to achieve the target of a 21.82% renewable energy mix in Central Java Province by 2025. Exceeding the target with a renewable energy mix of 15.76% in 2022 has encouraged the Government of Central Java Province to proactively open doors for renewable energy investments to achieve the set targets and maintain regional economic competitiveness.

Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of IESR, explained that Central Java has abundant potential for renewable energy, particularly solar energy. According to IESR’s study, if 9 million residential buildings install rooftop solar power systems, it could generate 100,000 megawatts (MW). Additionally, if the 35 regent and mayor offices throughout Central Java install rooftop solar power systems, it would generate around 5 megawatts (MW) of solar energy. Fabby emphasized that the renewable energy potential in Central Java, including wind power plants, micro-hydro power plants, biomass power plants, and geothermal power plants outside of Central Java, reaches 198 megawatts (MW).

“The availability of renewable energy is now a key factor in attracting investments. Therefore, if we want to enhance investment competitiveness in Central Java, it is necessary to increase the availability of green energy supply. This becomes a new indicator for investors. The vast potential of renewable energy sources cannot be realized without funding for their development,” explained Fabby Tumiwa.

Vice Governor of Central Java Province, Taj Yasin Maimoen, explained that Central Java has abundant solar energy potential that is yet to be fully utilized. Therefore, the use of solar power plants needs to be accelerated. Since 2019, the Provincial Government of Central Java, through the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources, has installed solar power plants in every regional organization office, including the Central Java Regional Council and several educational institutions. The use of solar power plants is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and has economic benefits, such as reducing electricity expenses by around 30-40%.

“Central Java has competitive potential, including infrastructure support, workforce, and a strong commitment to investment. The renewable energy sector presents a new investment opportunity in Central Java, considering the growing needs of the manufacturing ecosystem, which requires alternative energy sources to meet its production. This potential needs to be managed together,” said Taj Yasin.

Sakina Rosellasari, Head of the Investment and Integrated One-Stop Service Agency (DPMPTSP) of Central Java Province, stated that Central Java has a general investment plan, to promote environmentally conscious investment policies (green investment). According to DPMPTSP records, there are 690 permits for self-supply electricity providers (IUPTLS), and the number of rooftop and steam IUPTLS is approximately 17 as of June 2023.

“There are several projects ready to be offered in the renewable energy sector in Central Java, including the development of mini hydropower plants in Banjaran and Logawa, Banyumas Regency, the construction of floating solar power plants in Wadaslintang Reservoir, the development of geothermal power plants in Candi Umbul Telomoyo and Baturaden, Banyumas Regency. Realizing investments in Central Java is expected to increase community income and provide employment opportunities,” stated Sakina.

Cahyo Purnomo, Director of Promotion for East Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa at the Ministry of Investment/BKPM, stated that the energy transition process cannot happen overnight; it requires time and commitment. The development of renewable energy is one of the efforts toward a low-carbon economy, and so creating a conducive investment climate is necessary.

“For example, in formulating regulations, predictability is essential for investors. We encourage direct investment based on a long-term perspective, not just for 1-2 years. Therefore, it is important to have a stable investment climate, and the formulation of regulations should involve all stakeholders; there should be no mere spectators,” said Cahyo.

The Synergy of Central Java Provincial Government to Realize Low Carbon Development

Semarang, 8 December 2022 – The Provincial Government of Central Java has consistently strengthened their commitment, role and shared responsibility for implementing the energy transition to achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly development. Collaborating with the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), the Central Java Provincial Government held the “Central Java Stakeholders’ Gathering: Energy Transition for Low Carbon Regional Development” to share developments and good practices that have been carried out in Central Java.

Taj Yasin Maimoen, Deputy Governor of Central Java, said in his remarks that the energy transition is crucial to reduce CO2 emissions that cause climate disasters. For this reason, he said, it is necessary to promote a green economy as one of the main parts of the energy transition by developing industries in the field of new and renewable energy, sustainable natural resource management, developing environmentally friendly production processes.

“In developing the energy sector, the government of Central Java has issued Local Regulation no. 12/2018 Concerning Regional Energy General Plans. As a follow-up to this regulation, Governor Regulation number 29 of 2021 was stipulated, which contains instructions for its implementation. The governor’s regulation emphasizes community participation in the implementation of new renewable energy, for example, community participation in the development of new renewable energy in Central Java through the Energy Independent Village program,” said Taj Yasin. He added that the availability of energy on a community scale, if supported, would leverage economic growth.

Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of IESR, added that leadership, regional innovation and collaboration are the keys to driving green economic growth and energy transition.

“The community can be involved in driving their energy transition with their efforts and support from the government. This is called energy transition cooperation. The energy transition requires a large amount of effort and investment, so contributions from the community must also be accommodated. The practice so far carried out in Central Java can become a reference in many regions in developing renewable energy and encouraging low-carbon development,” said Fabby.

Furthermore, the Head of the Central Java Provincial Energy and Mineral Resources (EMR) Office, Sujarwanto Dwiatmoko, explained that the Regional Energy General Plan (RUED) would later be integrated into the Low Carbon Development Action Plan (RAPRK) and the Regional Medium Term Development Plan (RPJMD). Thus, the Central Java RPJMD already contains a commitment to building environmentally friendly energy to achieve the goals of food and energy sovereignty. The office of EMR Central Java builds cooperation with various parties to achieve this goal, one of which is with IESR.

“In collaboration with IESR, in 2019, the Central Java Provincial Government has made a big commitment to the Central Java Solar Province. Since then, the capacity of rooftop PLTS in Central Java has increased from 0.1 MWp in 2019 to 22 MWp in 2022,” said Sujarwanto.

This progress has made other agencies such as the Environment and Forestry Service of Central Java Province, the Office of Industry and Trade (Disperindag) of Central Java Province, and the Regional Owned Enterprise (BUMD) PT Jateng Petro Energi (JPEN) join hands with IESR in glossing the energy transition and development low carbon in Central Java Province.

Widi Hartanto, Head of the Environment and Forestry Service for Central Java Province, said that waste generated by industry and society can be processed into an energy source. For this reason, his party is working with IESR, among others, to carry out studies on reducing emissions through managing waste and waste into renewable energy, building capacity for stakeholders regarding reducing greenhouse gas emissions through waste and waste management and utilizing renewable energy.

“We have fostered the climate village program (Proklim), around 525 Proklim have received certificates from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, and we are trying to collaborate with Energy Independent Village,” added Widi.

As a contributor to 34% of economic growth in Central Java, the Head of the Central Java Provincial Office of Industry and Trade, M. Arif Sambodo, acknowledged that the industrial sector is also responsible for producing carbon emissions. In collaboration with IESR, the Department of Industry and Trade is preparing a Map for the Development of Renewable Energy Utilization in the Industrial Sector and Industrial Areas. Moreover, his party will initiate a Partnership Network between Metal Small and Medium Industries (IKM) in Central Java and the Solar Panel Industry so that they can become part of the supply chain and increase Local content requirements (TKDN).

“Regarding the substitution of imported products, we need to increase domestic components. Central Java has metal potential, which has become tier 2 as a major automotive supply chain supplier in Indonesia,” Arif explained.

PT Jateng Petro Energi, through M. Iqbal, Main Director of JPEN, in collaboration with IESR and other partners, will carry out three big strategies to encourage energy transition efforts with solar power and clean mobility, namely strengthening ecosystem institutions, solopreneurship or creating green jobs and capacity building.

“We will socialize solar panels for Regional Apparatus Work Unit (SKPD) in Central Java province and provide Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) to support the acceleration of the use of battery-based electric vehicles,” he said.

Questioning the relatively small regional authority over the renewable energy sub-affairs related to the energy transition Tavip Rubiyanto, Head of Sub-department of ESDM Directorate of Synchronization of Regional Government Affairs I, Directorate General of Development and Development, Ministry of Home Affairs, said that his party was preparing a Presidential Decree as a follow-up to Law No. 23/2014 on Regional Government. This is done so that the authority of the local government in carrying out the energy transition is more flexible. 

“Anticipating the dynamics of development at the national and regional levels, it can be further regulated in a Presidential Decree for the division of functions so that it can strengthen regional authority so that it can play a bigger role in achieving the energy transition target,” Tavip explained.

In addition to presentations from the four institutions, the “Central Java Stakeholders’ Gathering: Energy Transition for Low Carbon Regional Development” also presented a dialogue with Achmad Husein, Banyumas Regent, Djoko Siswanto, Secretary General of the National Energy Council (DEN), Tavip Rubiyanto, Head of Sub-department of ESDM Directorate of Synchronization of Regional Government Affairs I, Directorate General of Development, Ministry of Home Affairs, M. Firdauz Muttaqin, Deputy Head of Bank Indonesia Representative for Central Java Province, and Ignatius Iswanto Santoso, General Manager Engineering, PT Djarum OASIS Kretek Factory.

In the dialogue, generally, the speakers underlined the need to carry out an energy transition in cooperation with the community, accompanied by support from the local government by issuing regional regulations which can become the basis for investors in the development of renewable energy in the regions, the application of green financing from financial institutions and implementation of sustainable practices in the industrial and commercial sectors.

Central Java Stakeholder Gathering 2022

Background

Since 2019, IESR and the Provincial Government of Central Java have continued to work together in the energy transition sector. There is a significant positive impact from the cooperation that has been carried out, in 2022, IESR and the Provincial Government of Central Java will renew their collaboration which is marked by the signing of a Joint Agreement on the Development of Renewable Energy for the Energy Transition. This is a form of multistakeholder institutional action to encourage Indonesia’s decarbonization system.

The contribution of religious parties, especially local governments, in supporting development that is oriented towards low carbon development and a green economy needs to be increased through various instruments, such as; policies and regulations, incentives, and some other supporting instruments to guarantee a just energy transition process. In addition, IESR also sees that regional policymakers and the general public have an important role in the smooth energy transition. Therefore, it is hoped that with the renewal and expansion of the scope of cooperation between IESR and the Provincial Government of Central Java, it is hoped that various policy stakeholders can work together in supporting the energy transition and regional decarbonization.

The expansion of the scope of cooperation as outlined in the joint agreement document (KSB) covers the energy, industrial and environmental sectors. The energy sector together with the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) on increasing the mix of renewable energy, especially solar energy. The industrial sector together with the Industry and Trade Service (Disperindag) to increase the implementation of renewable energy in the industrial sector. The environmental sector together with the Environment and Forestry Service (DLHK) reduces greenhouse gas emissions through the management of waste and waste into renewable energy. In addition, the expansion of the scope of cooperation also involves Regional Owned Enterprises (BUMD), and Central Java Petro Energi (JPEN) to accelerate the construction of PLTS in Central Java.

IESR work plans and programs with each Regional Apparatus Organization (OPD) of Central Java Province have been prepared and compiled in the 2022 KSB update. Several approaches and initial studies have been carried out and discussed together to obtain an up-to-date picture of the energy transition landscape in the regions to develop a plan of directed action and an equitable transition at the local level.

Considering the continuity and smoothness of plans and work programs on renewing cooperation between IESR and OPD of Central Java Province, it requires a strong commitment from various parties as a manifestation of the contribution of the role of local government in integrating energy transition issues into regional development plans. input, collaboration, and participation from various parties are widely open to push the energy transition agenda in the regions.

Therefore, IESR in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Central Java will carry out dialogue and public dissemination with related stakeholders under the title “Central Java Stakeholder Gathering 2022” to strengthen commitment, roles and joint responsibilities for implementing work plans and programs as well as a form of dissemination local government in encouraging community participation in the energy transition.

Objectives

  1. Presentation of the progress of the cooperation between IESR and OPD Central Java Provincial Government.
  2. Presentation of activity plans in collaboration with IESR and OPD Central Java Provincial Government in 2023.
  3. Dissemination of local government commitments and best practices on energy transition by various parties and stakeholders.

Significant Roles of Subnational Governments to Lead the Decentralization of Energy Transition

press release

Bali, 30 August 2022–The post-pandemic economic recovery by staying focused on making ambitious climate mitigation efforts through low-carbon development is a step that needs to be taken by local governments. The success of low-carbon development is also inseparable from planning for a just energy transition. The commitment of various parties, including local governments and communities to promoting the energy transition, is crucial considering that decentralization of the energy transition will have multiple impacts.

The Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo, said that through the Central Java Energy and Mineral Resources Office, he was actively pushing for energy transition efforts in his region. Energy transition policy instruments such as governor’s circular letters, regional secretaries, and various initiatives such as the declaration of Central Java to become a solar province in 2019, are ways to attract the private sector and the public to utilize renewable energy through the adoption of rooftop solar. Until Q2 2022, the total installed PLTS capacity in Central Java Province reached 22 MWp. The Central Java Provincial Government also supports the use of other renewable energy that is abundantly available, such as livestock manure biogas and micro hydro power plant(MHP), with government programs or encouraging community collaboration.

“Asymmetric decentralization by inclusion with (treatment-red) specifically in every location. With collective awareness, the potential for renewable energy in the area is checked and stimulated,” said Ganjar. This, according to Ganjar, will encourage a faster transformation.

Central Java’s climate commitment is also shown by starting to use electric vehicles as provincial government official vehicles.

Togap Simangunsong, Expert Staff of the Minister of Home Affairs for Social Affairs and Inter-Institutional Relations, Ministry of Home Affairs appreciated the good practices carried out by the Central Java Provincial government. He said that his party and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources are currently drafting a Presidential Regulation that strengthens the authority of regional/provincial governments in the administration of government affairs in the field of energy, mineral resources, and sub-sector of new and renewable energy.

“Through this, it is hoped that local governments can provide support in efforts to achieve the target of the new renewable energy mix as an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions so that local government commitments are made to accelerate energy justice following their authority,” said Togap representing the Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian in a webinar entitled “Energy Transitional Decentralization: Increasing the role of communities and local government” organized by the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) and the Central Java Provincial Government.

In addition, Chrisnawan Anditya, Head of the Planning Bureau, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources said that the utilization of renewable energy potential will open up opportunities in building a green national economy and as an effort to recover the economy after the pandemic under the G20 Presidency’s theme, “Recover Together, Recover Stronger”.

“Each region has a special new renewable energy potential that can be used to improve the welfare of local communities. The difference in the potential for new and renewable energy between regions is a technical challenge, as well as a great opportunity for our energy system. This condition allows the sharing of energy based on new and renewable energy when the area experiences energy abundance or scarcity. For this to happen, an integrated electric power system (smart grid and super grid) is needed,” explained Chrisnawan on the same occasion.

Furthermore, strong leadership at the regional level will be able to mobilize the community to make the cooperation of energy transition. This was stated by Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of IESR. He said the initiative and leadership of the local government will be able to answer the problem of access and security of energy supply by utilizing the abundant renewable energy potential in the area.

“Indonesia’s energy transition requires the construction of hundreds or even thousands of gigawatts, renewable energy generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure and energy storage systems. But by starting to divide it into small units, the big problems can be more easily solved and carried out by more parties,” said Fabby.

He added, based on the IESR study, that the decarbonization of the energy system in Indonesia will cost USD 1.3 trillion by 2050, with an average investment requirement of USD 30-50 billion per year. This amount is 150%-200% of the current total investment in the entire energy sector.

“This investment need is costly and cannot be borne solely by the government and SOEs. But this large investment can be met if we take into account the potential of the contribution and innovation power of the community as well as the capabilities of local governments. Citizens’ contributions and innovations can mobilize funding from the government, local government and village governments, as well as funding from the private sector and non-governmental institutions,” he added.

Bali is the first province in Indonesia to have a special governor regulation for clean energy and electric vehicles. In the Governor’s Regulation on Bali Clean Energy, the Governor of Bali encourages the use of renewable energy for various sectors, especially rooftop solar power plants. This effort is carried out to realize the vision of low carbon development in Bali and concrete steps for sustainable tourism.

“Due to the pandemic, Bali’s tourism has stumbled, after the pandemic, Bali has started to rise. Several tips have been implemented, such as the governor’s regulations and circulars regarding the adoption of rooftop solar power plants. Actually, the main target is tourism, but first, do a pilot in the government,” said Ida Ayu, Expert Staff to the Governor of Bali.

The plans and steps for achieving renewable energy targets in the Regional Energy General Plan (RUED) are also carried out by the Jambi Provincial government. The Governor of Jambi, Al Haris, through the Deputy Governor of Jambi, Abdullah Sani, emphasized his commitment to work together with the central and private parties to develop regional energy transitions because the resources they have are very sufficient, only to use and transform natural resources into energy that can be enjoyed by the Jambi community in particular.

The Jambi Provincial Government through the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources has also collaborated with IESR for the implementation of RUED and energy conservation efforts within the local government. Currently, the Governor of Jambi is in the process of issuing a governor regulation for the use of PV mini-grid as a substitute for energy subsidies.

Central Java Provincial Government Boosts Utilization of Rooftop PLTS in Local Government Environments

JAKARTA – Located in the Equator area with the sun shining almost all year round, the utilization of solar energy in Indonesia is not very encouraging. Having solar energy potential of up to 3 – 20 GW, Indonesia has only utilized about 400 MW of solar energy based on land suitability. At the same time, the Government of Indonesia is racing against time to increase its renewable energy mix to achieve the target of 23% renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2025.

Several steps to fulfill the renewable energy mix target of 23% by 2025 have been carried out, such as Regulation No. 26 of 2021 concerning Rooftop Solar Power Plants (PLTS) issued by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). This regulation emphasizes that rooftop solar power plants can be a strategy for increasing the national energy mix. Local governments have a strategic role in accelerating renewable energy by making strategic policies to develop renewable energy in their regions. As the first solar province in Indonesia, Central Java recorded a renewable energy mix of 13.38% in 2021. The Central Java provincial government also encourages the expansion of rooftop solar power plants (PLTS) within the local government as a commitment from the Central Java Solar Province initiative, cooperation between the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources Central Java and IESR.

In his remarks by the Director-General of Bina Bangda, Ministry of Home Affairs, Teguh Setyabudi, delivered by the Director of SUPD I, Ministry of Home Affairs, Edison Siagian, said regional development is part of national development. Specifically, regional energy transition policies are also the authority of local governments in setting standards and achievements targets. However, until now, the provincial government’s authority is still very limited, and the steps in developing renewable energy are also limited.

“The Central Java Provincial Government’s steps in continuing to develop programs and activities should be appreciated. Especially in the limited authority possessed by the provincial government, Central Java has involved elements of the regional secretary who have the function of coordinating, overseeing the implementation, and reducing the role of energy conservation across various OPDs to continue to innovate,” he said in the ‘Implementation of Rooftop Solar Power Plants in Local Government Environments’ on April 13, 2022, which was organized by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) in collaboration with the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR).

Various resource persons were also presented to see how local government learning can participate in the implementation of renewable energy. Ir. Tedjo Prabowo, a representative of the Bappeda of the Central Java Provincial Government, revealed that the provincial government’s commitment had been stated in the 2018 to 2050 Regional Regulation RUED with a target of a new renewable energy mix 2025 is expected to reach 21.32%. “The challenge in achieving the EBT target is still the same, namely easier access to fossil energy. And as stated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the regional authority in the administration of government affairs in the energy and mineral resources sector is still limited. However, the commitment to realizing energy sovereignty will continue to be supported by all sectors, including the Environment, Private and Community Services,” he said.

Marlistya Citraningrum, Manager of Access to Sustainable Energy at IESR, also said that through the RUED, a circular letter from the governor of Central Java and a circular letter from the regional secretary was issued to implement independently in the Regent’s office or DPRD for the development of PLTS in the social and productive sectors for green economic recovery. “Although there are challenges in the limited government budget, innovation is needed using various financing schemes such as leasing, ESCO, and third party financing (installment schemes). In line with this, the priority of development in their respective regions and the understanding of policymakers within the local government regarding rooftop solar power plants must be improved, “said Citra.

 

The use of solar energy mentioned by Citra regarding its application to rooftop PV mini-grid was also mentioned by Hevearita Rahayu, Deputy Mayor of Semarang. He has also started the first step as a commitment to new and renewable energy in the city of Semarang. “In 2019, through Bappeda, the Semarang City Government has conducted a study on the potential for RE development and became Perda No. 6 of 2022, which later became the vision of the RPJMD for 2021-2026. In 2020 there will also be a grant process from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, at which time we will also construct a new parking building to place 75kWp Solar PV. The result is savings in electricity bills of up to nearly 60 percent. The submission of grants by MEMR will also continue in 2021 to implement the RPJMN 2021-2026 priority program instructions. In the 2022 RPJMD, Semarang is currently compiling a feasibility study for solar panels to be built at city halls, offices, and schools. The target for 2023-2026 will be to carry out physical development in stages in all Semarang government offices,” he said.

 

The Head of the Central Java ESDM Office, Sujarwanto, also gave his opinion on energy policy and a joint commitment. “There needs to be enthusiasm to reduce the rate of CO2 emissions or build without excess carbon emissions. Central Java has had a commitment to the Regional Action Plan for Greenhouse Gas Control since five years ago. Therefore, government institutions must be examples of low carbon development. Together with a stronger commitment to the global, Indonesia is committed to the energy sector. Many districts/cities have budgeted for this program. This year there will be a budget refocusing. It is hoped that the regional budget will prioritize solar energy this year because the control of Covid-19 has improved. The Department of Energy and Mineral Resources is ready to provide assistance starting from choosing technology, managing energy in the office, and a consultation room with IESR,” he said.

Support for the application of rooftop solar power plants must continue as well as information on policies and implementation in Central Java Province will always be echoed. So that if all parties can collaborate well, then the implementation of the energy transition, which is the national development mandate, will be able to be implemented and benefit the people of Central Java. Furthermore, Central Java has contributed significantly to achieving the national renewable energy target.

Solar PV Answers Industrial and Commercial Needs to Provide Green Products

Semarang, October 06, 2021 – The Commercial and Industry sectors are potential partners to accelerate the penetration of renewable energy. The increasingly strong market demands for green products encourage the commercial and industrial sectors to switch to environmentally friendly technologies in order to maintain their existence in the global market. Solar PV is a strategic choice for the commercial and business sectors considering its relatively fast installation, as well as the availability of solar energy sources that are evenly distributed throughout Indonesia. In addition, investing in solar PV can reduce production costs.

Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) explained that currently in line with efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the industrial sector is faced with the obligation of the economic value of carbon. Especially for goods that are exported such as to European countries, America and Japan. The carbon footprint of a product that exceeds the specified maximum will be taxed. In addition, public awareness about sustainability issues is increasing, as stated by a survey by WWF and The Economist which found that searches on search engines with the keyword ‘sustainability’ increased by more than 71% during 2016-2020.

“Shareholders of companies have asked that all these companies commit to use 100% renewable energy. So if we want Central Java to become an industrial center, access to renewable energy must be facilitated,” said Fabby at a webinar organized by IESR with the Central Java Government entitled “Rooftop Solar Energy for the Commercial and Industrial Sector in Central Java” (6/10/2021).

In general, in terms of adoption, the number of rooftop solar PV users in Indonesia is increasing. Based on data from the Directorate General of EBTKE, until last August 2021, there were 4,133 rooftop solar PV customers in Indonesia, with a total installed capacity of 36.74 MWp. Judging from the capacity of rooftop PV by region, Central Java and DIY were ranked third with a rooftop solarcapacity of 5.83 MWp.

Chrisnawan Anditya, Director of Aneka EBT at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, explained that the government has given priority to the development of rooftop solar power plants considering its huge potential, fast installation, and very competitive prices.

“The medium-term strategy that is being pushed for the development of PV is rooftop solar which is targeted at 3.6 GW by 2025. In addition, we also continue to encourage utility-scale PV,” explained Chrisnawan on the same occasion.

To support infrastructure and services towards the energy transition, PLN must also improve on preparing grid adaptations and adapting to a business model that accommodates large amounts of renewable energy.

“This rooftop PV has an impact on the current PLN grid due to its intermittent nature. So PLN must provide a standby unit to supply electricity when the power generated by the PV rooftop cannot meet the existing electricity needs,” explained M. Irwansyah Putra, General Manager PLN Central Java – DIY.

Irwan also explained that in supporting the carbon tax mechanism, PLN has issued an REC (Renewable Energy Certificate). By purchasing this certificate, PLN will distribute electricity obtained from clean energy to the industry.

Questioning policies to encourage renewable energy in Central Java Province, the Head of the Central Java Province ESDM Office said that his party had prepared various policies. However, according to him, to encourage certain changes, in this case the transition from fossil energy to renewable energy (Solar PV-ed), policy support alone is not enough.

“Change will happen more quickly if it is driven by a market driven mechanism, so it’s not just complying with certain rules. The Central Java ESDM Office has tried to make policy packages that cover this market aspect with input from various parties such as the government, universities, and NGOs,” explained Sujarwanto.

The Central Java Regional Government also provides assistance to the commercial and industrial sectors in Central Java which are transitioning to green industries. “There are several steps taken to implement the green industry, i.e. training, facilitating certification for the green industry as well as awarding the green industry. Several companies in Central Java received this award,” explained M. Arif Sambodo, Head of the Industry and Trade Office of Central Java Province.

Opportunities for the commercial and industrial sectors to adopt solar PV are getting wider with the availability of various Solar PV investment schemes such as installments and leases. Anggita Pradipta, Head of Marketing for SUN Energy, said that there are three schemes offered by SUN Energy for prospective rooftop solar PV customers, namely Solar purchase, Performance Based Rental, and Solar Leasing.

“For the commercial and industrial sectors who want to install solar panels but are constrained by the initial installation cost, we recommend taking a performance based rental scheme. With this scheme, the customer will be bound by a contract for 15-25 years, where all the costs of maintaining the solar PV unit will be borne by SUN Energy, after the contract ends, the assets will become the property of the customer,” explained Anggi.