Jakarta - Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition (IIGCE) was held again at the Jakarta Convention Center, on Thursday (08/06/2018). The annual event held for three days by the Indonesian Geothermal Association (API) carries the theme "Empowering Geothermal for Indonesia's Energy Sustainability".
The event, which was opened by the Minister of Energy & Mineral Resources (ESDM) Ignasius Jonan, is expected to be a venue for breakthroughs to accelerate the development of geothermal business in Indonesia and the utilization of geothermal energy so as to encourage national energy independence. "The government supports the development of the geothermal business. Among them is by presenting a conducive situation for developers through renewing geothermal regulations, simplifying permits, and centralizing the bureaucracy, "he said.
Jonan admitted, one of the challenges faced today was the weakening of the rupiah exchange rate against the US dollar. "Therefore, I suggest the use of domestic production must be prioritized by all business entities," he added. Although the challenges faced are very large because this business is a long term investment, he expects investors not to be affected by the various turmoils that occur and not only depends on the government's efforts. In order for geothermal development to run smoothly, Jonan suggested that business entities conduct socialization and discussion to minimize friction with the surrounding community.
"This needs to be done so that geothermal exploration can be maximized and the process can be faster," Jonan said. After the opening, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani, who was present at the event, reviewed Pertamina's booth. President Director of PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) Ali Mundakir who accompanied explained about PGE's role as a subsidiary of Pertamina which is currently developing the geothermal business.
"This year PGE has produced 617 megawatts. At the end of the year or at least early next year we will add another capacity of 55 megawatts. So the total capacity will reach 672 megawatts. Of course this will provide a huge contribution to the development of geothermal energy in Indonesia, "he said.
He admitted, the obstacles were always there. "But we always prepare good project management so that all obstacles can be overcome and can achieve what is targeted at an efficient cost," he explained.
He also added that geothermal energy must be utilized to the maximum extent possible because Indonesia has a large geothermal potential. "In order to optimize this, the support of all parties is very necessary," he concluded. As of September 2018, Indonesia produced 1,948.5 megawatts or ranked second in the world in the development of geothermal energy. This achievement is expected to increase so that it is expected to support the 23% energy mix in 2025.
