JAKARTA, November 24, 2024 - The use of biomass as a cofiring material in coal-fired power plants (PLTU) is recognized as a solution to reduce carbon emissions while supporting the green energy transition. PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is developing a community-based biomass ecosystem to enhance the national energy mix.
Anita Puspita Sari, Vice President of Biomass Business Development Strategy at PLN EPI, stated during the Electricity Connect 2024 event that the integrated farming concept utilizes critical land for energy crops. This model ensures sustainable biomass supply and improves community welfare, involving over 330 farmers across various regions.
PLN EPI has established an integrated biomass supply chain to ensure stable delivery to PLTU. Biomass sources include agricultural waste such as cassava stems, sago powder, and rice husks, as well as energy crops like Indigofera. The supply chain is supported by infrastructure hubs and transportation via land, sea, and river.
A successful example is the Green Economy Village (GEV) program in Tasikmalaya, where 30 hectares were planted with 30,000 Indigofera seedlings and intercropped with chili and cassava. This initiative produces biomass for cofiring while also generating livestock feed, organic fertilizer, and additional income for the community.
In Lampung, cassava stems have replaced 2,500 tons of coal monthly, employing 23 local workers with an average daily income of Rp 80,000. In Aceh, rice husks are used to substitute coal at a capacity of 300 tons per month, involving 24 workers.
Anita emphasized the environmental and significant social impacts of these programs, stating, “By utilizing waste, we create job opportunities for local communities while supporting the green energy transition.”
As part of its green transformation, PLN Group will not sign new contracts for PLTU, instead maximizing existing assets through biomass cofiring. This initiative aims to reduce emissions by 18.5 million tons of CO2, offering a fast, cost-effective renewable energy solution.
Through biomass development, PLN EPI reaffirms its commitment to achieving net zero emissions (NZE) by 2060 and enhancing national energy independence by optimally utilizing local resources. “We believe that utilizing biomass, both from waste and energy crops, is a strategic solution to support the energy transition and strengthen the economy,” concluded Anita.