PLN Ensures Safe Electric Vehicle Journeys Ahead of Eid
The sky over East Java was not yet fully bright when the journey began. Roads connecting the northern coastal cities to the eastern tip of Java gradually came alive with traffic.
In the midst of this flow, a motorcade moved from Surabaya to Banyuwangi, not merely covering a distance, but ensuring preparedness: a more environmentally friendly journey for holiday travellers.
As Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026 approach, PT PLN (Persero) is ensuring the readiness of electric vehicle infrastructure along East Java’s main corridor. Adi Priyanto, Director of Retail and Commerce at PLN, together with senior officials from the Retail and Commerce Directorate, undertook an overland journey tracing the Surabaya-to-Banyuwangi corridor, directly inspecting Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) that support electric vehicle mobility in the region.
However, this journey was not merely a technical inspection. At each SPKLU stop, Adi took time to greet customers who were charging their electric vehicles. Casual conversations took place amidst the rumble of vehicles coming and going. He also occasionally spoke with PLN staff on duty, offering encouragement to those who would ensure services remained operational throughout the holiday season.
The East Java corridor holds important significance in the map of electric vehicle travel across Java. This route serves as the main connector for drivers continuing their journeys to Bali. Consequently, inspections were conducted at several strategic points that frequently serve as stopping locations for electric vehicle users.
The journey began at the SPKLU Center UP3 South Surabaya. At this location, Adi directly inspected the charging facilities and assessed the readiness of staff who would serve customers during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr period.
Ahmad Mustaqir, General Manager of PLN’s East Java Distribution Holding Unit (UID), explained that East Java plays an important role in the electric vehicle ecosystem across Java. To date, PLN UID East Java has prepared hundreds of charging facilities spread across various strategic points.
“In East Java, approximately 297 SPKLU units are currently available at 158 locations, including along the Trans Java route which is the main travel route for residents,” he said.
Beyond merely providing charging facilities, PLN is also developing the SPKLU Centre concept, a charging point designed to be more user-friendly for electric vehicle users. At this location, riders can do more than simply charge their batteries—they can also rest briefly.
“Electric vehicle users who are charging can rest whilst enjoying the available facilities, making the charging experience more comfortable,” said Mustaqir.