At least, that’s what we hear from John Anis, the CEO of Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (NRE). CGN will invest in Indonesia’s first nuclear energy project. As the renewable energy division of Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned oil and gas corporation, Pertamina NRE is preparing the groundwork necessary for this significant development in the nation’s energy landscape.
In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Anis detailled the initiative’s purpose: to diversify Indonesia’s energy sources. The plan aims at exporting electricity to its much richer southern neighbor Singapore. This smart, strategic play comes just as the world’s energy market begins to lurch toward cleaner, more sustainable choices. The timing really can’t be worse for this very welcome development. Pertamina NRE’s entry into nuclear power is a brave new step into this uncharted territory.
Pertamina NRE has established a nuclear task force to propel its nuclear aspirations. This winning team will continue inquiring into the feasibility and implementation of nuclear energy in their home country of Indonesia. This is a clear picture of the company’s efforts to grow its energy mix outside of traditional renewables. Anis underscored the significance of this project in laying the groundwork for Indonesia’s energy transition in the long term.
Further, the company is fast-tracking non-subsidized solar, with plans to deploy 30 megawatts. This shift highlights the company’s overall focus on renewables, in addition to their nuclear plans. The firm is collaborating with coal-giant-turned-renewables-investor, Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN). This collaboration comes on the heels of PLN rolling out its new 10-Year Electricity Procurement Plan. Together, this collaboration represents a growing recognition of the importance of an inclusive energy transition. It is a precondition for achieving Indonesia’s energy security.
Pertamina NRE is preparing for a significant first in the form of one such project. With confidence, Anis expects that nuclear energy can play an essential role to enhance Indonesia’s electricity generation capacity. He agrees that adding nuclear power to the picture could go a long way in making the country more energy independent and providing electricity for a rapidly growing demand.
Related Dimas Ardian contributed a powerful portrait of John Anis. It aptly illustrates the grit, imagination and focus he’s driving into Pertamina NRE’s ambitious goals. The company is exploring the details of what it takes to get into the nuclear industry. It remains focused on placing all safety and regulatory considerations at a premium during this process.