PLN strengthens Java-Bali electricity reliability with six IBT units

PT PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Pembangunan Jawa Bagian Timur dan Bali (UIP JBTB) is strengthening electricity reliability in the Java and Bali regions with six large-capacity interbus transformer (IBT) units, which will support the operation of the 500 kV GITET and 150 kV GI Kalipuro. General Manager of PLN UIP JBTB, Hendro Prasetyawan, stated that the construction of the Extra High Voltage Substation (GITET) and Substation (GI) Kalipuro is a strategic national project (PSN) designed to increase transmission capacity and ensure the stability of electricity supply in the Java-Bali region. “The entire field team is currently working extra hard to ensure that the construction stages proceed according to schedule, while prioritising occupational health and safety (K3) aspects,” he said in Surabaya, East Java, on Tuesday. He explained that the six IBTs, which arrived at Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi, East Java, will accelerate the development of electrical infrastructure in Banyuwangi. He emphasised that the presence of this IBT equipment is crucial for GITET Kalipuro as it functions as the heart that regulates the distribution of large power from the 500 kV system to the 150 kV system. “We continue to strive to ensure that the entire series of this project runs simultaneously and massively,” Hendro stated. Given the very large and heavy dimensions of the IBT materials, the mobilisation process from the port to the construction site requires special handling and the use of heavy transport vehicles (multi-axle). This has the potential to cause slowdowns in traffic flow along the routes passed, so PT PLN UIP JBTB apologises for any inconvenience arising during the mobilisation process. As an inseparable part of the energy complex development in Kalipuro, PT PLN (Persero) has set a target for the operation of the 150 kV GI Kalipuro in January 2027. This project will become a vital complement to the 500 kV GITET Kalipuro in distributing energy more reliably and efficiently towards load centres. The construction of GITET and GI Kalipuro is expected to become the backbone of electricity distribution from generators in East Java to Bali Island, ensuring the availability of electricity supply for industry, tourism, and ports in the Banyuwangi region. “We hope that the development of this PSN will minimise the potential for disruptions and increase the operational flexibility of the electrical system,” he said.