Central Java Regional Council: Halt Ungaran Geothermal Project if it Poses a Threat!

The Chairperson of Commission D of the Central Java Provincial Regional Legislative Council (DPRD), Nur Saadah, stated that she has requested the halt of planned geothermal projects in Central Java, particularly in Mount Ungaran and Telomoyo, if they pose a threat to community life. This was conveyed by Nur during a recent meeting with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) in Jakarta.

Nur revealed that the meeting with the Ministry of ESDM was a follow-up by her institution regarding the wave of public opposition to the planned geothermal projects in Mount Ungaran and Telomoyo. “It was explained yesterday that there are 19 points in Central Java where geothermal drilling is to be conducted. We conveyed that the community has objections due to fears of disasters, earthquakes, water scarcity, and other issues,” Nur said on Saturday (26/09/2026).

Nur requested a clear explanation regarding the geothermal project plans. “As representatives of the people, we are conveying the demands of the community so that the government does not cause prolonged anxiety. Therefore, if it truly becomes a threat to the people, then it should be stopped,” she said.

She noted that the Ministry of ESDM acknowledged the planned geothermal energy utilisation project in Mount Ungaran, the assignment for which has been given to PT PLN. Before the project is implemented, there are still several stages or mechanisms that must be completed.

Nur requested that representatives from the Ministry of ESDM meet and engage in direct dialogue with the residents living around the Mount Ungaran area. “We are asking for direct communication with the community, particularly those in the Semarang and Kendal Regency areas, who are worried about being impacted by the project,” she said.

She added that the Ministry of ESDM has agreed to this. “We also requested to be involved so that when there is a meeting between the department or the Ministry of ESDM, it involves the provincial ESDM office, the provincial council, and the local community,” Nur said.

However, Nur could not yet confirm when the meeting between Ministry of ESDM representatives and the residents around Mount Ungaran would take place. “If it takes too long, we will follow up to ensure the meeting is held promptly,” she added.