Indonesian Coal-Fired Plants Witnesses Remarkable Increase in Biomass Integration

Indonesia's state-owned electricity company, PT PLN, has announced significant strides in reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy through the optimization of biomass using co-firing technology in coal-fired power plants.

Darmawan Prasodjo, the President Director of PLN, highlighted the company's commitment to exploring biomass as a substitute for coal, a journey that began in 2021. The incorporation of co-firing technology has emerged as a breakthrough in Indonesia's energy transition efforts, offering a multitude of benefits, including emission reduction and a shift away from fossil-based energy dependence.

Prasodjo emphasized that PLN utilized one million tons of biomass across 43 coal-fired power plants (PLTU) throughout Indonesia in the past year. This represents a substantial 71% increase in biomass usage compared to 2022. The president director conveyed that PLN plans to continue testing co-firing technology until 2025, with the ultimate goal of implementing this technology across all 52 PLTU in the country.

In a noteworthy achievement, Prasodjo disclosed that in late 2023, PLN successfully operated the Sintang PLTU in West Kalimantan using 100% biomass for 15 consecutive days, setting a record for the longest duration in Indonesia. This milestone serves as evidence of PLN's steadfast commitment to providing clean energy and sets the stage for broader applications of biomass utilization in other PLTU facilities.

To develop a sustainable ecosystem for biomass, PLN has engaged in collaborative efforts with local communities. Prasodjo highlighted the company's collaboration with the Yogyakarta Special Region provincial government since March 2023. The objective is to create a green economy zone, involving local residents and contributing to the net-zero emission target set for 2060.

The commitment to testing and implementing co-firing technology underscores PLN's proactive stance in the face of evolving energy needs. By leveraging biomass as a renewable energy source, the company is not only contributing to emission reduction but also fostering economic development, community engagement, and environmental conservation.

The successful operation of the Sintang PLTU using 100% biomass exemplifies PLN's dedication to pushing the boundaries of clean energy applications. This achievement not only demonstrates technical feasibility but also showcases the potential for broader adoption of biomass as a primary energy source in power generation.

PT PLN's strides in optimizing biomass with co-firing technology in coal-fired power plants represent a commendable effort towards sustainable energy practices in Indonesia. The substantial reduction in carbon emissions and the increased generation of clean energy underscore the positive impact of incorporating biomass into the energy mix. As PLN continues to test and implement co-firing technology, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of clean and sustainable energy in Indonesia.