Electric Stoves Become a Real Alternative Amid Global Energy Challenges

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia has called on the public to conserve domestic gas supplies in the simplest way possible. According to him, this involves avoiding wasteful use of LPG. Although the domestic gas supply situation remains stable, he hopes the public will collaborate with the government to maintain stocks by not overusing LPG. “I appeal and suggest that we must use energy wisely,” Bahlil stated. He also mentioned the use of electric stoves, which he considers a viable alternative for the public amid the issue of surging global oil prices. “Because of this, we must truly ask for the public’s help to use energy prudently together. If we can do this collectively, our future energy will be even better,” he added. Several members of the public who have switched to electric stoves agree with Bahlil’s statement. Andi Arif, a user of induction stoves, views the operational cost efficiency and ease of electric heating technology features as a real solution for households amid global energy price spikes. “From an operational perspective, the increase in electricity bills is only around Rp30,000 per month,” he revealed. Andi explained that the initial investment in electric stoves is far more economical because, in addition to stable gas prices, users are not burdened with the cost of buying new gas cylinders. Based on his calculations, the additional monthly electricity cost is very competitive compared to routine expenses for refilling gas cylinders, which are currently steadily rising. In line with this, Siti Sarah (45), a home-based catering UMKM operator, has directly felt the positive impact of switching to electric stoves on her business efficiency. According to her, using induction stoves makes production costs much more economical, so the profits or earnings from each order are more maximised compared to when she still used LPG. “Since using electric stoves, cooking energy expenses have become more stable and affordable; the remaining money can be used for additional raw material capital. Cooking is also faster and cleaner, making me more productive in accepting many orders every day,” Siti said. The government is promoting the use of induction electric stoves to replace 3 kg LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) stoves by wealthy individuals. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that Pertalite and Solar prices will not rise despite the intensifying global energy crisis due to the US-Israel war against Iran. Lower and middle-income groups will be the most affected if energy prices increase.