Bahlil Ensures CNG 3 Kg Will Be Subsidised, Price at Least Equal to LPG

The government plans to position compressed natural gas (CNG) as a replacement for 3-kilogram (kg) liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). CNG is currently undergoing trials for its use.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that the 3 kg CNG will be subsidised by the government to make it affordable for the public. He said this subsidisation is in line with instructions from President Prabowo Subianto.

“The President’s directive is that both CNG and LPG will always prioritise assistance for the people who truly need our help. Therefore, I assure you that subsidies must continue to be provided for the people,” he said when met at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in Jakarta on Wednesday (6/5/2026).

The government is currently discussing technical aspects and testing 3 kg CNG cylinders before they are widely used by the public to replace 3 kg LPG.

“Pray that it can be cheaper than 3 kg LPG. At least the same (as 3 kg LPG),” Bahlil said.

He explained that CNG use has already been implemented for 12 kg and 20 kg cylinders used by hotels and restaurants.

However, the government is still seeking the right formulation so that CNG can be used by households via 3 kg cylinders.

“The people can’t possibly be asked to use the heavy ones, 20 kg. This is what we’re currently working on, and we’ve actually been doing it for a year. But to get 3 kg technology, we’re testing it,” he clarified.

“If the cylinder is already safe, certified by Lemigas, with all safety aspects completed, then no matter how much (supply) there is in Indonesia, it’s available, because our gas is oversupplied,” he added.