Not Just for Electricity, Indonesia's Geothermal Energy Can Be Used for This

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) continues to expand the utilisation of geothermal energy. Not only as a source for power generation, geothermal energy is now also being developed to support the tourism sector, community empowerment, and even green hydrogen production.

Director of Exploration and Development at PGE, Edwil Suzandi, said the company has completed a study on the use of geothermal energy beyond electricity. One of the concepts currently being developed is an eco-resort where all energy needs are supplied directly from geothermal sources.

‘We have now completed a study where geothermal energy can support this. Firstly, an Eco Resort, where the electrical energy comes directly from geothermal sources. We are also creating sustainability. Today, PGE is developing community development through CSR for the surrounding community,’ he said in the Energy Corner CNBC Indonesia programme, quoted on Monday (27/7/2026).

In addition, PGE is developing community empowerment programmes by utilising geothermal steam to support local businesses. One example is the coffee processing method, which is considered faster compared to conventional methods.

PGE is also preparing a Geothermal Information Center as an educational hub that will introduce the entire geothermal development process, from exploration and plant operations to its benefits for society and the environment.

He explained that the concept is designed so that geothermal development is not solely oriented towards energy production, but also drives community economic sustainability by promoting local potential and wisdom around the operational areas.

Edwil stated that future geothermal utilisation will also be directed towards supporting data centre development and the green hydrogen industry.

Currently, PGE is running a green hydrogen pilot project produced using geothermal energy. The green hydrogen is expected to become an alternative clean energy source for the transportation and industrial sectors.

‘We see that hydrogen can become a substitute for today’s electric vehicles. Hydrogen can become the raw material. But we also realise that hydrogen still faces many obstacles today,’ he said.