Legislator Urges Diversification of Supply and Acceleration of Renewable Energy
The House of Representatives (DPR) assesses that the government must promptly ensure the availability of fuel oil (BBM) in the short term while accelerating strategic steps towards energy transition to address potential global crises.
Deputy Chairman of Commission VII of the DPR RI, Sugeng Suparwoto, stated that the primary step to take now is to maintain secure energy supplies amid global geopolitical dynamics.
“In the short term, we must prepare to ensure BBM remains available. Therefore, we need to seek as many sources as possible that do not depend on a single source,” he said at the Denpasar 12 Discussion Forum held online on Wednesday (1/4).
According to him, diversifying import sources is crucial to reduce supply disruption risks. However, he cautioned that importing from distant locations, such as the United States, poses its own challenges, including delivery times exceeding 40 days.
On the other hand, Sugeng emphasised the importance of accelerating the transition to new renewable energy (EBT) as a long-term solution. Indonesia, he said, possesses vast potential from various clean energy sources.
“We are very rich in renewable energy, including solar, geothermal, wind, sea waves, and hydropower,” he stated.
He cited the significant development potential for energy in eastern Indonesia, such as in Mamberamo, estimated to generate up to 20 gigawatts, and North Kalimantan with around 15 gigawatts.
Nevertheless, he asserted that energy transition does not mean halting oil and natural gas (migas) production. Migas production remains necessary, particularly to support the national petrochemical industry.
“We will continue to produce migas, especially for the petrochemical industry’s interests. If the country wants to advance, it must be strong in steel and the petrochemical industry,” he explained.
Sugeng added that Indonesia currently imports about 53% of its petrochemical product needs, valued at approximately $19.3 billion in 2025. This situation underscores the need to strengthen domestic industry for greater self-reliance.
Furthermore, he views that the potential energy crisis due to global conflicts requires a collective response across sectors to produce comprehensive solutions.
“Thinking about the energy crisis resulting from war requires togetherness, so that we obtain solutions that become shared understanding and can be addressed collectively,” he concluded.