The upcoming launch of a new diesel fuel with significantly lower sulfur content is set to transform the energy landscape in Jakarta. Scheduled for September 1, 2024, this innovative fuel promises to be cleaner and more environmentally friendly compared to the current subsidized diesel options.
Taufik Aditiyawarman, the President Director of PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional (KPI), confirmed that efforts are underway to ensure the availability of this low-sulfur diesel by the launch date. “By September 1, we are aiming to introduce low sulfur diesel to the DKI Jakarta area and its surroundings,” Taufik stated during his visit to the RDMP Balikpapan office of PT KPI in East Kalimantan on Monday (August 12, 2024).
This new diesel fuel, expected to be supplied at a rate of 900,000 barrels per month, will be sourced from the Balongan refinery. The distribution process is streamlined through pipeline transportation.
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“The Balongan unit is prepared to supply DKI Jakarta. The fuel will be transported by pipeline from Balongan to TBBM Balongan, which is managed by Patra Niaga, and then from there to Plumpang,” he explained.
The initiative to introduce this cleaner fuel aligns with the government’s broader environmental goals. Dadan Kusdiana, Acting Director General of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), emphasized that the new diesel product reflects the government’s commitment to more sustainable fuel options.
“We have not yet finalized the specifics, but the government’s intention is to provide cleaner fuel,” Dadan mentioned when questioned about potential subsidies for the new diesel, during his visit to the ESDM Ministry office in Jakarta on Tuesday (July 30, 2024).
The government is working to ensure that this new fuel is both available and affordable for the public. As sulfur levels decrease in diesel, the economic pricing adjusts to reflect the fuel’s quality. Dadan added, “Different sulfur levels in diesel affect its price. We are currently finalizing the supply schedule, amount, facilities, and distribution areas to determine the economic feasibility.”
Overall, the launch of this low-sulfur diesel marks a significant step toward enhancing fuel quality and supporting environmental sustainability in Indonesia.
