Itera submits academic review of Electricity Bill to support energy transition

The Sumatra Institute of Technology (Itera) has submitted an academic review of the Bill for the Third Amendment to Law Number 30 of 2009 on Electricity to Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI). The review serves as input to strengthen regulations supporting the energy transition and national energy security. Itera Rector Prof. Elfahmi stated that universities have a strategic role in producing research-based policy recommendations and developing technological innovations to accelerate the national energy transition. He said academic contributions are necessary so that electricity policy can address the challenges of providing reliable, sustainable, and low-emission energy. He explained that Itera continues to develop a research ecosystem and the utilisation of new renewable energy on campus, including through the construction of a solar power plant (PLTS) that is one of the largest such installations within Indonesian higher education. The PLTS has supplied electricity for three campus buildings and is also used as a learning and research laboratory for the academic community. The revision needs to include strengthening measurable emission indicators, optimising ancillary services, evaluating electricity business areas, accelerating the development of national strategic infrastructure, and regulating cross-border electricity trading arrangements that still prioritise national interests. According to him, this policy will encourage the creation of a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable electricity system and provide economic benefits through integrated governance. He added that the development of research and the use of clean energy on campus is expected to serve as an example and make a tangible contribution to realising a sustainable, resilient, and low-emission national energy system.