PLN Builds First Undersea Cable in Sulawesi to Expand Electricity Access

The construction of a 20 kilovolt Medium Voltage Undersea Cable connecting Ilangata Village to Pulau Dudepo is expected to promote equitable electricity access while boosting economic growth, education, and public services in North Gorontalo Regency. General Manager of PT PLN (Persero) UID Suluttenggo, Usman Bangun, stated on Pulau Dudepo on Thursday that the undersea cable project is part of PLN’s commitment to increasing the electrification ratio to reach island communities and remote areas. Usman explained that the approximately 1.95-kilometre cable will channel electricity supply from the SulutGo system to Pulau Dudepo. The infrastructure is targeted to serve around 390 households, or approximately 1,400 residents. He noted that the process of installing the undersea cable involves a high degree of difficulty, as it is influenced by tides, wind direction, and weather conditions. All stages of the work, from permitting and material procurement to equipment mobilisation and personnel preparation, have been carried out with a priority on occupational safety. Gorontalo Vice Governor Idah Syahidah Rusli Habibie said the undersea cable to Pulau Dudepo is the first of its kind in Sulawesi and is expected to broaden electricity access for island communities. ‘We express our gratitude to all PLN personnel and the divers working in the field. We hope the entire process proceeds smoothly, that the workers remain safe and healthy, so that this project can be completed on target and immediately benefit the people of Pulau Dudepo,’ she said. She added that the development is the result of synergy between the Gorontalo Provincial Government, PT PLN (Persero), the North Gorontalo Regency Government, and support from various parties in providing electricity services to the people of Pulau Dudepo.