USTDA Backs U.S. Lithium Technology for Indonesia's Geothermal Sector
USTDA Backs U.S. Lithium Technology for Indonesia’s Geothermal Sector
17 Mar 2026 15:20 WIB
Voice of Indonesia
RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is supporting the introduction of American technology to boost lithium processing from Indonesia’s geothermal operations – a move seen as strengthening both energy innovation and bilateral cooperation.
Through a USTDA-funded pilot project, California-based Lilac Solutions, Inc. will demonstrate its ion-exchange technology at PT Geo Dipa Energi’s (GDE) geothermal facility, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
GDE President Director Yudistian Yunis welcomed the initiative, calling it a milestone for Indonesia’s lithium independence and a deepening of strategic ties with the United States.
“Lithium naturally exists in geothermal brine, which is already part of our operations. This allows us to generate economic benefits for local communities while maintaining environmental sustainability,” Yudistian said, as quoted by Antara, adding that USTDA’s support is expected to accelerate access to U.S. innovation and expertise while opening opportunities with potential American buyers.
The collaboration is also expected to attract further investment and enhance the scalability of lithium projects in the long term. Yudistian emphasized that the partnership reflects a mutually beneficial effort to strengthen supply chain resilience and promote sustainable resource management.
USTDA Deputy Director Thomas R. Hardy noted that the facility will be Indonesia’s first to extract lithium from geothermal brine. “This project highlights the value of U.S. solutions in building resilient supply chains and advancing responsible resource development with our partners in Indonesia,” Hardy said.
He underscored that reliable lithium supply is critical for modern technology and energy needs.
Lilac Solutions will apply its ion-exchange technology at the Dieng geothermal field in Central Java, aiming to produce high-quality lithium carbonate in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner. The pilot is expected to connect GDE with potential U.S. buyers and pave the way for expanded geothermal development across Indonesia and the Indo-Pacific.
Lilac CEO Raef Sully highlighted the broader potential. “Indonesia’s geothermal fields hold significant untapped lithium resources. This project will demonstrate that American ion-exchange technology can optimize them responsibly and at scale.”
USTDA, a U.S. government initiative, funds early-stage technical projects in developing countries to accelerate infrastructure development while promoting American technology solutions. In Indonesia, the agency’s support is designed to catalyze investment, expand geothermal opportunities, and strengthen the country’s role in the global battery supply chain. ***