Geothermal Power Plant Development Must Consider Environmental Heritage
Jakarta (ANTARA) – Center for Energy Security Studies (CESS) Executive Director Dr Ali Ahmudi Achyak said geothermal power plant development must take into account the sustainability of water resources, ecosystems, community land and cultural heritage in the area.
Ali said geothermal development should be carried out in stages, with due consideration given to technical, environmental and social assessments, spatial planning and applicable regulations.
“If the target of around 55 megawatts (MW) can be achieved, fuller success will mean that this electricity capacity goes hand in hand with the protection of water resources, biodiversity and cultural heritage values, as well as economic benefits for the community,” Ali said in a statement received in Jakarta on Sunday.
He said the concept could be framed as “55 MW+0”: generating electricity while maintaining the functions of water resources, biodiversity and cultural heritage, and delivering economic benefits to nearby communities.
One important aspect to consider is the sustainability of water resources. Initial assessments could cover spring and river flows, water quality, groundwater levels, rainfall, hydrogeological conditions and how local communities use water.
Forest conditions and wildlife habitats should also be assessed when determining the locations of facilities such as roads, well pads, pipelines and other supporting infrastructure. Restoration and revegetation can also be carried out in areas affected by construction.
According to Ali, geothermal development can contribute to the energy transition while safeguarding the area’s sustainability if it is based on assessments, uses appropriate technology, involves communities, and is monitored transparently and consistently.
The proposed geothermal power plant development on Mount Ungaran could serve as an example of how renewable energy development can strengthen energy security while protecting the area’s sustainability.
Ali said Mount Ungaran has characteristics beyond its geothermal potential: it also serves ecological and socio-economic functions and has historical and cultural value.
Development would involve managing the underground reservoir, drilling production and injection wells, and building power generation facilities, pipelines, access roads and other supporting infrastructure. Used fluids would be reinjected into the reservoir through injection wells.
Cultural considerations are also important, given the area’s historical heritage, including the Gedong Songo Temple complex. Mapping protected zones and conducting archaeological, vibration, landscape-visual, hydrological and landslide-risk assessments are necessary during planning.
“This shows that energy development needs and ecosystem protection can be designed together. Drilling technology, adaptive facility planning and area restoration create scope for geothermal development that is more efficient while still taking environmental sustainability into account,” he said.
Ali said involving communities from the outset is also important for building trust in the project.
Communication forums involving the government, developers, local authorities, academics, communities, environmental advocates and cultural heritage stakeholders could provide a space to discuss assessment progress and receive input.
“Using geothermal energy while preserving water resources, generating electricity while maintaining biodiversity, building infrastructure while respecting cultural heritage, and developing energy through open communication are all part of a more holistic approach to energy development,” Ali said.