ESDM Issues Directives to Prevent Power Outage Recurrence in Sumatra

Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has instructed PT PLN (Persero) to overhaul the electricity system to prevent a repeat of the recent total blackout in Sumatra. The government has called for an evaluation of transmission networks and a realignment of power generation load distribution across the island.

Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung stated that infrastructure strengthening at vulnerable points, particularly those prone to natural disruptions, is a priority. He emphasised that synchronising protection systems with on-ground conditions is crucial for improving national electricity reliability.

‘The first step is a technical review of the system for improvements,’ he said during a meeting at the DPR RI building in Jakarta on Monday, 25 May 2026. ‘Secondly, system enhancements, including the installation of earthing systems in high-risk areas.’

The directive follows a transmission network disruption in Merangin caused by lightning, which triggered the blackout. The government noted the current power distribution structure is suboptimal, with northern regions heavily dependent on electricity supplied from the south.

‘Thirdly, there must be a balance in power generation supply across regions. Relying on distant sources, such as sending power from south to north, significantly prolongs recovery time,’ he added.

The ministry also highlighted the lengthy restoration period for power plants after system failures. Steam power plants (PLTU) typically require around 12 hours to resume normal operations, making local energy balance essential.

‘Looking ahead, we will assess all improvements made. Thankfully, the recovery process, as coordinated with PLN, has reached 100%,’ he concluded.