RI focuses on Sumatra-Java power interconnection development

“Our immediate target is establishing the connection between Sumatra and Java. Subsequently, we will develop connections linking Sumatra with the Riau Islands and Sumatra with Bangka Belitung,” Deputy for Energy and Mineral Resources Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, Ellen Setiadi, said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Setiadi noted interconnection is crucial for linking energy hubs with industrial centers, including industrial estates, smelters, economic zones, and new growth centers.

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Regarding the Riau Islands, he emphasised strengthening interconnections is necessary to support the expanding data center sector in Batam.

He noted data center development requires a supply of green energy. Therefore, electricity needs in the Riau Islands must be supported by new and renewable energy sources from other regions, including Sumatra.

“The Riau Islands, including Batam, are a key destination for data center development; not only in Nongsa, but also across the Batam area, the data center sector there has grown significantly,” he said.

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The Java-Bali link is currently the only established inter-island interconnection. The government is now pushing for the development of interconnections involving Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, the Riau Islands, and Bangka Belitung.

Setiadi said the government aims to have the inter-island interconnections established between 2032 and 2035.

Strengthening the grid is part of a plan to build a 70,000-kilometer “green super grid” by 2040, an initiative considered crucial for integrating new and renewable energy potential to support industrial estates, smelters, economic zones, and new growth centers.

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Translator: Shofi Ayudiana, Cindy Frishanti Octavia