Assessing Hydro Energy Potential in Indonesia, President Jokowi: Calculate Them in Detail!

Indonesia will begin to calculate its strength and potential in the renewable energy sector. Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said that Indonesia has 4,400 large and medium rivers that can be used as hydro power.

This was conveyed by the President at the opening of the 10th Indonesia New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) ConEx 2021, at the State Palace, Jakarta, Monday (22/11/2021).

President Jokowi gives a speech at the opening of the 10th Indonesia EBTKE ConEx in 2021 at the State Palace, Jakarta, Monday (22/11/2021). (Photo: BPMI Sertpres/Lukas)

"In Indonesia, we actually have enormous power in regard to the renewable energy, 418 Gigawatts, be it from hydro power, geothermal, wind, solar panels, bio fuels, underwater currents, and others," said the President Jokowi, as quoted from an official press statement (22/11/2021).

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The renewable energy potential calculation must also be followed by a concrete scenario in order to begin energy transition. According to the President, it is necessary to prepare a clear road map for funding and investment. 

“The question is, what kind of scenario? That's what I assigned to the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs & Investment and also to the Minister of Energy & Mineral Resources, plus the Minister of SOEs. Be concrete,  the calculations should be real, there should be real figures," he continued.

Out of the 4,400 large and medium rivers owned by Indonesia, the government will begin to develop energy from two rivers as a start, namely the Kayan River (Borneo Island) and the Mamberamo River (Papua).

"The Kayan River has been calculated at around 13,000 Megawatts. The Mamberamo River at around 24,000 Megawatts," explained Jokowi.

The President also implied that the the government is open to input so that the energy transition scenario can work. However, the President reminded that the calculations should be done in detail.

On the occasion, the President Jokowi said that the energy transition will be brought into discussion at next year's G20 in Bali. The Head of State hopes that in the next G20, energy transition scenario can be discussed more clearly.

The president hopes that detailed calculations and the gap that must be paid by Indonesia alone can be cleared. He also insisted on formulating concrete solution that can be presented in the next G20.

Previously, President Jokowi acknowledged that 90% of Indonesia's energy supplies are still from non-renewable sources. He also stated that energy transition can no longer be delayed.