Indonesia Finalises SAF and B50 Distribution to Strengthen Energy Security

The acceleration of the national energy transition continues to enter the implementation phase with the strengthening of energy distribution infrastructure and the development of low-emission fuels. This move is part of efforts to support energy independence targets while accelerating the achievement of Net Zero Emission through the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the distribution of B50 biodiesel. This commitment was the focus of a working visit by PT Pertamina (Persero) Chief Commissioner Mochamad Iriawan to the East Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara (Jatim Balinus) region from 29 June to 3 July 2026. The visit began with a Management Walkthrough (MWT) to the Juanda Aviation Fuel Terminal (AFT) and the Surabaya Integrated Terminal to ensure the operational readiness of strategic energy facilities. While inspecting AFT Juanda, Iriawan stressed the importance of Pertamina’s readiness to support the development of SAF, or environmentally friendly aviation fuel, as a pillar of the aviation sector’s energy transition. “This concrete step from Juanda is expected to prove Pertamina’s leadership in achieving the Net Zero Emission target. The task of maintaining aviation fuel supply also demands zero tolerance for stock shortages and service interruptions,” Iriawan said on Monday (29/6/2026). He added that the readiness of infrastructure and human resources for SAF implementation aligns with the government’s directives to strengthen national energy independence while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. He noted that developing SAF not only addresses the global demand for low-carbon energy but also opens opportunities to optimise sustainable domestic resources with added value for the national economy. After reviewing the Juanda AFT, Iriawan continued his visit to the Surabaya Integrated Terminal, one of the largest energy distribution hubs for eastern Indonesia. On that occasion, IT Surabaya Manager Indriati Purba Lestari reported that all terminal facilities are ready to support the supply and distribution of B50 biodiesel ahead of the programme’s imminent launch. Responding to the report, Iriawan urged IT Surabaya to become a pioneer in green energy development within Pertamina and serve as a model for implementing sustainable energy programmes at other terminals. “True energy sovereignty is when we can stand on our own feet, processing what God has bestowed upon this archipelago into clean energy for the nation’s future. We must not become a nation that hangs its fate on the mercy of the global market,” he said. In addition to accelerating new and renewable energy development, Iriawan encouraged the optimisation of operational digitalisation through the use of the Pertamina Integrated Command Center (PICC) and the Terminal Automation System. He stated that these systems are crucial for improving energy distribution efficiency, strengthening accountability, and supporting the company’s zero-loss target. Amidst global geopolitical dynamics that could affect the energy supply chain, he also reminded of the importance of maintaining the reliability of strategic assets such as storage tanks, jetties, and pipeline networks to ensure they operate optimally. Strengthening operational reserves is a key factor in safeguarding national energy supply security during global market volatility. Although the energy transformation is being accelerated, Iriawan emphasised that occupational safety remains the top priority. He called for the consistent application of the Corporate Life Saving Rules culture to protect workers while maintaining the reliability of the nation’s strategic assets in supporting the national energy transition.