Indonesia, a country rich in natural resources, holds extraordinary potential for renewable energy development. With sources such as solar, water, hydro, geothermal, bioenergy, and other renewable alternatives, the possibilities seem endless. However, the nation has barely scratched the surface of this vast opportunity.
Of the estimated 3,600 Gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy potential, only a fraction—1.4 GW, or 0.38%—has been utilized. This stark reality highlights a significant gap in the nation’s energy strategy.
“Currently, only about 1.4 GW has been harnessed, which represents just 0.38% of our potential,” said Yuliot Tanjung, Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), during the 2024 Renewable Energy Stakeholder Performance Appreciation Night. His remarks, shared on Wednesday (18/12/2024), underline the urgent need for action.
Yuliot expressed optimism about improving renewable energy utilization. He noted that energy availability often drives investment decisions, as investors tend to favor areas where resources are abundant.
“When sufficient energy is available, investors are more likely to pursue opportunities nearby. This proximity to resources and energy supply plays a key role in their investment strategies. We hope this can lead to more equitable economic development across all regions,” he explained.
Read also: Mount Bromo to Temporarily Close Ahead of 2025 Holidays
The Deputy Minister stressed that investment is a crucial component for maximizing the renewable energy sector’s contribution to Indonesia’s economy. This becomes even more critical as the nation accelerates its transition to cleaner energy sources.
“Achieving economic contributions from this sector is impossible without substantial investment in renewable energy development,” Yuliot emphasized.
As Indonesia pushes forward with its green energy agenda, the focus remains on leveraging its untapped potential to bolster sustainable economic growth and address global environmental challenges.
