PLN Prepares 439 EV Charging Stations Along East Java-Bali Route
PT PLN (Persero) has prepared 439 units of Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) along the homecoming route from East Java to Bali to support the smooth travel of electric vehicle (EV) users during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah homecoming period. This readiness was confirmed directly by PLN’s Director of Retail and Trading, Adi Priyanto, after inspecting an SPKLU at the Rest Area KM 792 A on the Gempol-Pasuruan Toll Road in East Java.
Adi emphasised that this preparation is a manifestation of PLN’s commitment to providing an integrated electric vehicle ecosystem from upstream to downstream, while ensuring safe, comfortable travel free from concerns about running out of power midway.
“PLN has conducted comprehensive preparations well in advance. All charging infrastructure along the East Java to Bali homecoming route is in optimal condition and ready to serve EV travellers’ needs 24 hours a day without interruption,” said Adi.
In line with the growing public trust in electric vehicles, PLN projects that the number of EV users during this year’s homecoming period will grow by up to 60 per cent compared to the previous year. This trend indicates that Indonesia’s electric vehicle ecosystem is maturing and increasingly accepted widely.
To anticipate this surge, PLN has not only increased the number of SPKLU but also positioned them strategically at high-mobility points, such as toll road rest areas, inter-city routes, and access to ferry crossings. The distance between SPKLU is designed to be around 22 kilometres to provide reassurance for electric vehicle users during their journey.
“With the increasingly widespread and planned distribution of SPKLU, electric vehicle users have greater flexibility in planning their trips, while gaining certainty of charging access along the homecoming route,” he added.
This strengthening of electric vehicle infrastructure is also part of PLN’s contribution to promoting the national energy transition. Electric vehicles are seen as a strategic solution to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector while enhancing energy resilience.
“The use of electric vehicles not only provides efficiency and comfort but also supports a cleaner, more sustainable, and resilient energy system,” explained Adi.
The General Manager of PLN UID East Java, Ahmad Mustaqir, stated that of the total 439 SPKLU units along the East Java-Bali route, 297 units are located in East Java, spread across 158 strategic locations. Additionally, PLN UID East Java has introduced five SPKLU Centres with supporting facilities to enhance user comfort.
“The presence of SPKLU Centres is expected to provide a more optimal charging experience and support the smooth travel of EV homecomers,” said Ahmad.
Meanwhile, in Bali, the General Manager of PLN UID Bali, Eric Rossi Priyo Nugroho, stated that PLN has prepared 142 SPKLU units at 93 strategic locations spread across South Bali, East Bali, and North Bali. This distribution ensures easy access to charging for electric vehicle users, both locals and tourists.
“The even and reliable charging infrastructure support is expected to deliver smooth and enjoyable travel for all electric vehicle users in Bali,” Eric concluded.