Indonesia Not in Coal Crisis for Power Generation, Energy Minister Assures President Prabowo

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia — Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has refuted claims that Indonesia is experiencing a coal supply crisis, particularly for coal-fired power generation plants (PLTU).

The statement was delivered by Bahlil before President Prabowo Subianto during a full cabinet session at the State Palace on Friday, 13 March 2026.

Bahlil stated that the government had received reports indicating that coal supply for coal-fired power plants was beginning to diminish. However, he disputed the accuracy of such reports.

According to Bahlil, coal availability across all PLTU facilities, both those owned by state utility PLN and Independent Power Producers (IPP), currently averages 14 days of supply. This figure remains within the national minimum standard threshold.

“So this may also be clever fingers playing with words as though we are facing a coal crisis—with due respect, that is not correct,” said Bahlil in remarks reported on Monday, 16 March 2026.

Furthermore, Bahlil stated that his ministry has mandated all coal companies that have received approved work and budget plans (RKAB) to fulfil their Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) before undertaking exports.

He emphasised that should domestic coal demand not be adequately met, the government will not issue export licences to companies failing to meet DMO requirements.

“Now coal companies that have submitted their RKAB are required to fulfil the DMO. If national demand cannot be adequately met, we will not issue export permits,” Bahlil said.