West Java DPRD Hears Input from Activists on Biomass Co-Firing

Commission IV of the West Java Provincial DPRD held a Hearing of Opinions (RDP) with several civil society organisations, including Walhi Jabar, LBH Bandung, Trend Asia, and Sajogyo Institute, to discuss energy issues and the implementation of biomass co-firing in West Java on Wednesday (22/4/2026). Member of Commission IV of the West Java DPRD, Tedy Rusmawan, expressed appreciation for the various inputs provided by environmental activists. According to him, these views are important as considerations in formulating sustainable energy policies. “We appreciate the constructive inputs from colleagues regarding the implementation of biomass co-firing and its impact on the environment. This is a shared concern for both the government and the DPRD,” said Tedy. In the forum, representatives from environmental organisations assessed that the energy transition policy through the biomass co-firing scheme has not fully become an appropriate solution to reduce dependence on fossil energy, particularly in the electricity sector. They highlighted the potential emergence of new problems, both from the environmental side and social impacts on communities in affected areas. Several reports from the community, said Tedy, have also indicated issues that need to be addressed immediately. “On that basis, we see the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the policy, as conveyed by the environmental activists,” he said. As a follow-up, Commission IV of the West Java DPRD plans to hold a follow-up RDP involving stakeholders. This step is taken to enrich the substance in discussing the regional regulation draft (ranperda) that is being prepared. In addition, the DPRD also encourages the regional government to re-examine the governance of the environment, forestry, and energy sectors, particularly in the implementation of the biomass co-firing programme. “If there are things that need to be improved, the DPRD can pursue them through the formation of regional regulations, as long as it is within the province’s authority,” said Tedy.