PLN UPK Flores Implements B50 Biodiesel at Maumere Gas Engine Power Plant

PT PLN (Persero) Unit Pelaksana Pembangkitan (UPK) Flores has implemented the use of B50 biodiesel at the 40 megawatt (MW) Maumere Gas Engine Power Plant (PLTMG) as part of its support for the government’s energy transition programme. PLN UPK Flores Manager Tri Handoko stated in Kupang on Tuesday that the company has undertaken various technical preparations to ensure the use of the biodiesel fuel blend does not disrupt the reliability of the power plant or the electricity supply to the Flores System. “We at the implementing unit have prepared mitigation steps and engine parameter adjustments so that the B50 biodiesel combustion process runs optimally,” he said. He explained that the entire team is fully committed to overseeing the trial until full implementation is carried out in stages. According to him, PLN’s main focus is now to keep all generating equipment reliable, efficient, and safe, so that the electricity supply to the Flores System remains secure. He noted that B50 biodiesel is a fuel consisting of a mixture of 50 percent biodiesel based on Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) and 50 percent diesel oil. The use of this fuel is expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels while supporting the utilisation of domestic energy resources. The declaration of B50 biodiesel implementation was attended by all management and employees of PLN UPK Flores as a sign of readiness in terms of both human resources and infrastructure to support the programme. PLN UIK Dwipantara General Manager Rita Triani said the implementation of B50 biodiesel is part of PLN’s commitment to supporting the national energy mix target and accelerating the transition to cleaner energy. “This declaration is a tangible manifestation of the commitment of all PLN personnel to making the government’s strategic programme a success. We ensure that every stage of B50 biodiesel implementation in the field is carried out with an emphasis on occupational safety and system reliability,” she said. The company is targeting to support the achievement of the national energy mix without reducing the quality of electricity services to the public. PLN believes the use of B50 biodiesel will provide a number of benefits, including helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening energy independence through the use of domestic palm oil-based biodiesel, and encouraging the growth of the national biodiesel industry. Through this implementation, PLN hopes the development of more environmentally friendly power plants can be further expanded, thereby supporting the provision of reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity for the community, particularly on Flores Island.