Indonesia’s Bahlil Promotes Kayan and Papua Hydropower Projects to Canada’s Minister

JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Indonesia’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, recently highlighted Indonesia’s vast renewable energy potential during a meeting with Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, Mary Ng. The focus was on hydropower, with Bahlil emphasizing major projects such as the Kayan Hydropower Plant (PLTA) in Kalimantan, which will have a capacity of 12 gigawatts (GW), as well as the Papua Hydropower Plant, which also boasts a 12 GW capacity.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to support the global energy transition,” Bahlil said in a statement released on December 4, 2024.

In addition to hydropower, Bahlil discussed potential cooperation in nuclear energy, noting that Canada is a global leader in nuclear development. He added that the Indonesian Parliament has approved the use of nuclear energy, and regulatory frameworks are expected to be finalized by 2025, with gradual implementation starting in 2032.

The meeting also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on critical minerals between Indonesia and Canada, aimed at strengthening cooperation in driving sustainable energy transitions. Bahlil expressed confidence that the collaboration would foster technology exchanges and help both countries achieve their energy goals.

During the Energy Transition Roundtable session, Bahlil highlighted Indonesia’s growing energy demands, noting that the country needs 91 GW of electricity, with projected economic growth of 6%. To meet President Prabowo’s target of 8% economic growth, Indonesia will require an additional 61 GW.

He also reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to energy transition, with plans to reach 60% renewable energy in the country’s energy mix by 2033, and a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, or even sooner by 2050.

Minister Mary Ng reaffirmed Canada’s support for Indonesia’s energy transition, emphasizing substantial backing, including climate financing of CAD 5.3 billion over the past five years. Canada has been involved in key projects with the Asian Development Bank, including geothermal power plants and wind and solar installations across Indonesia.

Canada is also a partner in the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), which aims to mobilize up to USD 20 billion in public and private finance to support Indonesia’s energy transition.

The meeting marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and accelerating efforts towards a sustainable energy future for both nations.(Uki Ruknuddin)