ESDM grants additional coal production quota for PLN's needs

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has granted an additional coal production quota to meet the operational needs of PT PLN (Persero) power plants. Director General of Minerals and Coal at the ESDM Ministry, Tri Winarno, stated that the additional quota is exclusively designated for PLN. Tri emphasised that the government is striving to maintain coal supply stability. The government does not wish to restrict coal production in a way that causes supply problems for power plants, but is also working to ensure the international coal market does not experience an oversupply. Tri noted that mining entrepreneurs are welcome to submit revisions to their Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) until 31 July. PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo confirmed there will be no further blackouts in Java, and the company is strengthening the electricity system to prevent a recurrence. Darmawan said that for the short term, PLN has received additional coal supplies with a calorific value above 4,200 kcal per kg. He detailed an additional 1.8 million tonnes in July, followed by around 3 million tonnes from August to December on top of existing volumes. Furthermore, PLN will retrofit its coal-fired power plants (PLTU) to utilise lower-calorie coal, thereby preventing rolling blackouts. Darmawan cited the successful retrofit of PLTU Suralaya units 6 and 7, which can now operate on coal with a calorific value of around 4,100–4,300 kcal per kg, lower than the original specification of 4,600–4,800 kcal per kg.