PLN Enhances Operator Competency as Power Plant Technology Advances

PT PLN (Persero) is strengthening its human resources competencies to support the reliability of the national electricity system through operator training for Ultra Super Critical (USC) coal-fired power plants. This initiative comes as power plant technology advances, requiring operators with more specific skills. The workshop on operating USC coal-fired power plants was organised by the PLN Education and Training Centre through PLN UPDL Suralaya from 10 to 12 June 2026 at PLTU Jawa 7 in Serang, Banten. The training is part of PLN’s efforts to improve operator competency to safely, efficiently, and reliably operate high-tech power plants. General Manager of PLN Pusdiklat, Y Endah Cahyaningrum, stated that simulator-based learning is one approach to strengthen power plant operator competencies. ‘PLN Pusdiklat continues to encourage learning that is not only based on theory but also provides practical experience through simulations that closely resemble actual conditions. By using simulators, participants can understand operational processes, train their responses to various scenarios, and reinforce operational discipline and a culture of workplace safety,’ Endah said in a press release on Friday (26/7/2026). The workshop equipped participants with an understanding of once-through boiler characteristics, the USC steam cycle, control philosophy, critical operating parameters, and the control of boiler, turbine, generator, and Balance of Plant systems. In addition to theoretical material, participants engaged in practical sessions using an Operator Training Simulator (OTS) to simulate various plant operating conditions, from start-up, load raising, and normal operation, to handling basic disturbances and shutdown procedures in accordance with safety protocols. Endah noted that simulator-based learning allows participants to gain a more comprehensive experience without disrupting actual plant operations. This approach also enhances operator readiness to face various operational scenarios in the field. Conducting the workshop at PLTU Jawa 7 also provided a direct learning experience within an Ultra Super Critical power plant environment, enabling participants to gain a deeper understanding of modern power plant systems. Through this training, PLN hopes to produce operators who understand the basic principles of USC technology, can apply operational procedures correctly, and uphold a strong culture of workplace safety. Strengthening human resource competencies is expected to improve power plant reliability while supporting national energy security amid rising electricity demand.