Water, fossil resources best energy alternatives

JAKARTA (JP): If properly exploited, the nation's abundant water and fossil resources would provide a better alternative than nuclear power in meeting Indonesia's rising demand for energy, an expert says.

"In fact, water and fossils are the best solution to the energy problem," Parangtopo, a professor of physics at the University of Indonesia, said during a discussion on the impact of nuclear radiation on people and the environment.

"We have many rivers with the potential for power generation. Besides that, a number of oil sites and coal mines are not yet utilized at maximum capacity," he said during the discussion held by the Indonesian Anti-Nuclear Society.

He pointed out as examples that the Mahakam and Barito rivers in Kalimantan are not yet exploited. Much of the oil and coal potential of the island has yet to be exploited, he added.

He reminded his listeners that any decision on which energy source is suitable for development in a particular area must be made on the basis of a thorough and careful study involving experts and the public alike.

The nuclear energy debate has been raging in Indonesia since the government announced its plan to build two nuclear power plants on Mount Muria, Central Java. The plan has met strong opposition from environmental groups, which not only fear disaster, but also consider the multi-billion dollar price tag for the project exorbitant.

Parangtopo, who is also chairman of the Indonesian Physics Association, said the water-generated power plants are most suitable for development in areas outside of Java.

"The development of water-generated power plants will create new urban centers. This, in turn, will help improve distribution of population," he said.

He added that all of the rivers in Java have already been exploited for power generation. However, he said, Java's demand for energy can still be met by fossil-fuel generators.

Suitable

Parangtopo advised that the government reconsider its decision to build nuclear power plants with capacities of 600 and 900 megawatts on Mount Muria.

"I'm not against the government's plan, but I doubt if Indonesia is technologically ready to cope with the danger that may happen in the future," he said.

"Nuclear is no doubt a source of clean energy, but it can be disastrous if the people handling it lack skill and experience," he added.

Leakage from a nuclear plant could cause the temperature in areas as far as 1.5 kilometers from the plant site to rise to as high as 4,000 Celsius degrees, he cited an example of the danger.

The resulting radiation would cause near total extinction of human beings and other creatures in affected areas, he added. (imn)