Mendiktisaintek: President requests rapid study on fuel efficiency
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has asked universities to conduct a rapid study to save on fuel oil (BBM) usage, said Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek) Brian Yuliarto.
“We have been asked to study, essentially, because we have many campuses, experts, and professors to examine the possibilities for efficiency and savings. Since fuel prices and world oil prices are still high, we must not be complacent,” said Mendiktisaintek Brian Yuliarto at the State Palace in Jakarta on Thursday.
“The President has asked us from higher education to conduct a rapid study. So that the studies, which are aimed at providing savings on BBM, can be implemented immediately. This includes imported BBM, domestic, diesel, petrol, as well as gas including LPG and stoves,” he added.
Brian explained that assessments, studies, and research by universities are requested to be done quickly to ensure their implementation can be carried out promptly, given the potential crisis.
Regarding the focus of these fuel efficiency efforts, several subjects of concern include promoting vehicle electrification to reduce BBM imports.
In addition, he said, there is still significant use in various diesel power plants (PLTD). Therefore, replacing them with Solar Power Plants (PLTS) is encouraged.
“If that can be replaced, the President has asked for PLTS, wherever it can be replaced immediately. Even the President has requested that Indonesia no longer uses diesel, because it is expensive and not good for the environment. If it can be replaced with renewable energy, it will be very good,” he explained.
Regarding the target for when the study can be completed, Brian mentioned aiming for completion in April 2026, to then be submitted as recommendations to relevant ministries and agencies.
That step is important, he explained, because stopping solar imports could save around Rp25 trillion.
The study and research process itself is already being carried out by various universities in Indonesia.