Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Opening of the 10th Indonesia International Geothermal Convention and Exhibition (IIGCE), Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) Senayan, Jakarta Province, September 18, 2024
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.
Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,
Good morning,
May peace be upon us all.
Distinguished Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, along with all the other ministers and the Chief of the National Police,
Distinguished Leaders of Commission VII of the House of Representatives;
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors of friendly countries;
Distinguished Chairperson of the Indonesian Geothermal Association, Mr. Julfi Hadi,
Governors and local government leaders who are in attendance.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I believe that those of you present here today are far more knowledgeable and understand than I do about the advantages of geothermal energy compared to other types of green energy, both in terms of stability and independence from seasons and weather.
Earlier, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources said, “I remember visiting three geothermal power plant locations. I was surprised at the significant opportunity there, as many investors were looking for green energy, new and renewable energy (NRE), and the potential for 24 thousand megawatts. We have been working on it, but it’s not progressing quickly.
As conveyed by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, it was discovered that obtaining licenses can take up to 5-6 years before construction can commence.
To ensure more green electricity, this issue must be resolved swiftly, enabling investors to expedite the development of the 24,000 megawatts, of which only 11% has been completed so far.
Just imagine—waiting to start construction could take 5 to 6 years. If investors are impatient, they won’t be willing to wait six years. Even though people say I’m patient, I can’t wait six years either.
Indonesia, which holds an estimated 40% of the world’s geothermal potential, has significant development opportunities, with only 11% currently being utilized. Moreover, Indonesia is firmly committed to playing a pivotal role in global efforts to build a green economy, develop industries, and transition to renewable energy. I have consistently emphasized this commitment in various forums.
However, we all recognize that in pursuing a green transition, nearly every government in developing countries faces the recurring dilemma of balancing price affordability. This remains a constant challenge.
Then, we need to ensure fair access for the community. Moreover, we should avoid using closed technology, as it may not be optimal. I also understand that businesses must consider their calculations and factors, including turnover and profit-related issues. Together, we must work to overcome these challenges.
Nonetheless, climate change is a common problem worldwide, involving governments in developed and developing countries, entrepreneurs, researchers, and the people.
Therefore, I hope this forum can facilitate significant advancements, serving as a platform for balanced sharing of risks, burdens, and profits. This would allow for prompt decision-making and immediate action. As far as I know, in this decade, there have been several owners of geothermal power plants, including Pertamina, PLN, and the Ministry of Finance, as well as one or two private companies. It’s great to see that five more have been added, and we hope that these significant strides in green transition will lead to inclusive prosperity, equitable energy access, and an improved quality of life for everyone.
This concludes my remarks. By saying bismillahirrahmanirrahim, I officially open the 2024 Indonesia International Geothermal Convention and Exhibition this morning.
Thank you.
Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
(RY/MUR)