JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Despite geopolitical tensions and the United States’ decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, Indonesia’s solar power industry is projected to continue its growth trajectory in 2025. The Indonesian Solar Energy Association (AESI) remains confident that the sector will thrive, driven by strong government support and ongoing commitments to renewable energy development.

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 by 195 member countries of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to cap it at 1.5 degrees Celsius.

However, the US officially announced its withdrawal from the agreement in January 2025, raising concerns about its impact on global climate efforts. Despite this, AESI believes the move will not significantly hinder Indonesia’s solar energy sector.

Mada Ayu Habsari, Chairperson of AESI, stated that the US withdrawal has not yet affected Indonesia’s solar panel exports to the US. “So far, there have been no changes in export commitments to the US. I have not received any information from our members indicating a shift,”

She expressed confidence that the industry will continue to grow, emphasizing that the sector’s momentum remains strong.

The Indonesian government has played a crucial role in supporting the development of renewable energy, including solar power. Recent policies, such as easing domestic content requirements (TKDN), have provided a boost to the industry. Mada highlighted that AESI continues to receive full support from both the government and state electricity company PLN, ensuring the sector’s steady progress.

However, the renewable energy sector in Indonesia has faced some uncertainty following mixed signals from Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia regarding the acceleration of renewable energy growth. Despite these challenges, AESI remains optimistic that the solar power industry will stay on track with the government’s established targets.

Indonesia has made significant strides in solar energy development, with several large-scale projects underway. For instance, a 50 MW solar power plant in the new capital city of Nusantara (IKN) recently began operations, supplying electricity to industrial areas in Kalimantan. Additionally, PLN is collaborating with investors from Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia to develop floating solar power projects, further solidifying the country’s commitment to clean energy.

The resilience of Indonesia’s solar power industry underscores the nation’s determination to transition toward sustainable energy sources. As global geopolitical dynamics evolve, Indonesia’s focus on renewable energy development positions it as a key player in the fight against climate change. With continued government support and industry confidence, the solar power sector is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s energy future. (Uki Ruknuddin)