BPH Migas Optimises Gas Network Utilisation for Bojonegoro Residents

The Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas) is optimising the use of gas networks for household and small business customers in Bojonegoro, East Java. Head of BPH Migas Wahyudi Anas stated that the region has significant potential for gas network development, whether through the state budget, local government support, or independent expansion by PT PGN (Persero) Tbk. He noted that natural gas is a more efficient, safe, and economical energy source compared to other fuels. Currently, gas utilisation in Bojonegoro has reached only about 55 percent of the total allocation, indicating ample opportunity to expand household connections. “With the total volume utilised still at around 55 percent of the allocation, and gas use providing nearly 45 percent cost efficiency, this greatly helps the community by reducing monthly expenses,” Wahyudi said during a technical guidance and information dissemination event on piped gas regulation and supervision in Bojonegoro on Saturday. He added that besides cooking, the gas network can also be used for micro-business activities and water heating. Residents pay between Rp25,000 and Rp70,000 per month depending on consumption, which can also support small and medium enterprise production. As an oil and gas producing region, Bojonegoro deserves greater benefits from its energy resources. BPH Migas and Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives will continue disseminating information to prepare the community for wider gas network use, supporting the government’s Asta Cita vision of energy independence. Currently, gas networks in Bojonegoro operate in the districts of Bojonegoro, Ngasem, and Gayam under PGN’s Sales and Operation Region III. PGN SOR III General Manager Hedi Hedianto affirmed the company’s commitment to maintaining supply reliability, infrastructure, and customer service. Household user Suharsini said piped gas eases daily activities and reduces concerns over LPG availability. Micro-business owner Dwi Merawati reported lower operational costs, spending around Rp60,000 to Rp70,000 per month on gas. Small business customer Ahmad Arief Mardianto, who runs a fast-food restaurant, said his gas expenses dropped from Rp8.3 million per month using cylinders to an average of Rp5.5 million with piped gas, while also noting improved safety.