Minister Bahlil confirms coal supply issues for power plants resolved

Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that supply constraints of medium-rank coal for steam power plants (PLTU) have been fully resolved. “Now, all coal is on progress, so there are no more issues,” Bahlil said after inaugurating the Mini LNG Plant of PT Sumber Aneka Gas in Tuban, East Java, on Thursday (25/6). The statement addressed problems concerning medium-calorie coal, specifically with specifications around 5,200 kcal per kg GAR required by PLN’s power plants. Bahlil had previously announced the formation of a special team to oversee the coal procurement process for PT PLN (Persero) to prevent a recurrence of supply issues that could disrupt national energy security. He noted that the coal supply problems faced by PLN were not unprecedented, with a similar situation occurring in 2022, necessitating stricter oversight to avoid annual repetitions. In line with Bahlil’s statement, PT PLN (Persero) President Director Darmawan Prasodjo said the distribution of coal supplies meeting the required specifications for steam power plants was proceeding smoothly. Consequently, Darmawan added, efforts to improve the electricity system on Java Island were progressing well and gradually improving. Darmawan stated that going forward, PLN would enhance coal supply chain governance and strengthen power plants to ensure the electricity system on Java Island is maintained and continuously improved.