Entering 3rd Trial Phase, Bahlil Prepares 3 Kg CNG as LPG Alternative

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that his ministry is accelerating the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative to replace LPG. This is being done to reduce dependence on imported energy. Bahlil noted that the kerosene-to-LPG conversion programme initiated in 2006 was a sound policy. However, the programme was not accompanied by the development of a domestic LPG industry, leaving Indonesia still reliant on imports. “Ladies and gentlemen, we are only now moving towards the concept of energy sovereignty and independence. The LPG conversion from kerosene in 2006 was a noble, good idea. But we did not accompany it with an LPG industry, so we are actually importing again,” Bahlil said at the CNBC Indonesia Energy Forum in Jakarta on Thursday. He then explained that the government is now entering the third phase of trials for the use of CNG in 3-kilogram canisters. Meanwhile, 12-kilogram and 50-kilogram CNG canisters have already been used in the commercial sector, such as kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meals programme, hotels, and restaurants. He therefore stressed that the use of CNG is not a new technology, as it has long been applied in various sectors. The government is now developing its utilisation for household needs. “This is not something new that suddenly appeared from Fakfak, no. It has already existed. But for the people at the grassroots level who receive subsidies, they must use the 3-kilogram canister. The pressure is 200 to 250 bar. This is what we are currently testing,” he said.