Ministry of Energy Prepares Communal Solar Power Plants for Isolated Villages in Southeast Sulawesi
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is preparing a communal Solar Power Plant (PLTS) scheme to electrify isolated villages in the mountainous and island regions of Southeast Sulawesi (Sultra), which are difficult to reach via the main power grid.
Ahmad Amiruddin, Director of Electricity Programme Development at the Ministry of ESDM, stated in Kendari on Friday that communal solar power is the primary option for areas facing geographical constraints and limited road infrastructure access.
“The only choice for isolated areas is through communal solar power plants. This programme is aimed at providing electricity to communities that still face limited access, where extending the PLN (State Electricity Company) grid is not feasible,” said Ahmad.
He explained that as of the second quarter of 2024, the electrification ratio in Southeast Sulawesi was recorded at 93.55 per cent. This figure remains below the national average, which has reached 99.84 per cent, with priority areas for intervention including West Muna, East Kolaka, and South Buton Regencies.
“To close this gap, the central government is coordinating with the Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government, as well as district and city governments, to synchronise location data for the 2026 Village Electricity (Lisdes) programme,” he added.
In addition to preparing communal solar power for remote areas, the government continues to prioritise grid extension schemes for regions near existing PLN installations, as well as distributing New Electricity Connection Assistance (BPBL) for low-income households.
Ahmad also requested support from local governments regarding the provision of land for communal solar power plant construction, as well as the resolution of permits and access to supporting infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Southeast Sulawesi ESDM Office, Dewi, expressed her commitment to overseeing the implementation of the central government’s village electricity programme to ensure it is well-directed, permitted, and precisely targeted.
“It is hoped that this village electricity programme will run in accordance with the President’s mandate, ensuring there are no more uncoordinated or unauthorised programmes,” she explained.