Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia is gearing up to expedite the development of nuclear power plants (PLTN), with the government targeting the commissioning of its first facility between 2029 and 2032. This initiative aligns with the National Electricity General Plan (RUKN) 2025-2060 and Indonesia’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
A Step Toward Energy Diversification
Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Yuliot Tanjung emphasized the strategic importance of nuclear energy in diversifying the country’s energy mix. “The capacity of the planned nuclear power plant is substantial, given our net-zero emission targets,” Tanjung explained during a parliamentary hearing on January 24, 2025.
He noted that Indonesia’s energy diversification strategy faces challenges, particularly with renewable sources like geothermal energy, which are often located in remote areas. Nuclear energy is viewed as a viable alternative to meet the country’s energy demands and emission reduction targets.
Initial Capacity and Expansion Plans
The government’s initial plan includes constructing a nuclear power plant with a capacity of 250 megawatts (MW) by 2029-2032. The capacity is expected to gradually increase, adding another 250 MW by 2033.
According to Eniya Listiani Dewi, Director General of Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) at the Ministry of ESDM, the precise capacity and technical details are still under evaluation. “We’re still working on determining the exact capacity to be developed. For now, it will start small and expand incrementally,” Eniya noted.
The project will also require critical regulatory frameworks, including a Presidential Decree (Keppres) and the establishment of a Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization (NEPIO), to ensure smooth implementation.
Investment Challenges
Despite the ambitious plans, attracting investors to Indonesia’s nuclear energy sector has proven challenging. Eniya revealed that no companies have yet expressed interest in investing in nuclear power in Indonesia, largely because the project is still in its conceptual stage.
“We haven’t seen any interest from companies yet. These systems and capacities need to be detailed in our upcoming electricity supply business plan,” Eniya added.
Net Zero Ambitions Driving the Push for Nuclear
The push for nuclear power is part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to transition to clean energy and achieve its Net Zero Emissions (NZE) target. With renewable energy sources like solar and wind requiring significant space and geothermal limited to specific areas, nuclear energy is increasingly seen as a scalable and efficient solution.
Nuclear power offers the reliability and capacity needed to meet Indonesia’s growing energy demands while significantly reducing carbon emissions. However, its implementation will depend on addressing public concerns, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering a favorable investment climate.
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Looking Ahead
As Indonesia inches closer to its nuclear energy goals, the coming years will be pivotal. The establishment of clear regulations, the attraction of private investments, and the integration of nuclear power into the national energy mix will determine the success of this initiative.
If executed successfully, nuclear energy could become a cornerstone of Indonesia’s energy transition, solidifying its position as a leader in clean energy development in Southeast Asia.
(Becky)
