JAKARTA -- Indonesia is embarking on a transformative energy policy as President Prabowo Subianto pushes for the construction of nuclear power plants, signaling the nation's shift toward cleaner energy sources. The ambitious plan aims to establish approximately 4 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity, as revealed by an adviser to President Subianto on January 31, 2025.
The latest announcement marks a significant pivot for Indonesia, which currently relies heavily on fossil fuels for its energy needs, with more than half of its installed power capacity exceeding 90 GW derived from coal resources. Renewable energy sources, on the other hand, contribute less than 15% to the country's overall power generation, making this push for nuclear energy seem not just timely, but necessary for Indonesia's environmental sustainability and energy security.
Subianto's administration faces the pressing need to align with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By incorporating nuclear energy, Indonesia aims to diversify its energy portfolio, mitigate its longstanding reliance on coal, and fulfill its obligations under international environmental commitments.
The proposed nuclear plants are expected to significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions, and the choice of nuclear power reflects Indonesia's recognition of the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy sources. Yet, the plan does not come without apprehensions. Nuclear energy remains controversial within Indonesia, particularly due to the nation's seismic activity, which raises concerns about safety and environmental risks.
The adviser to President Subianto noted, "Indonesia plans to build nuclear power plants with the capacity of about 4 gigawatts (GW) to transition to cleaner energy." This statement encapsulates the administration's focus on modernizing the energy infrastructure to support long-term national development through cleaner energy solutions.
Building nuclear facilities calls for substantial investment and long-term commitment. Indonesia has yet to develop any nuclear power capacity, making this initiative particularly significant. The lack of nuclear infrastructure has delayed progress on energy diversification and raised concerns about energy security, especially as global demand shifts toward more sustainable practices.
While hybrid systems employing renewables have been explored, their combined output remains insufficient against the backdrop of rapid economic growth and increased energy demands. Starting with the planned nuclear installations offers Indonesia not only diversification but also the promise of energy reliability. A steady energy supply is fundamental to promoting economic growth and attracting foreign investments, which are particularly sensitive to energy costs and reliability.
Despite the perceived advantages, there is caution among stakeholders about the feasibility and implementation of nuclear power. Activists and some environmentalists have expressed concerns about the environmental ramifications of nuclear technology. The geographical makeup of Indonesia—with its thousands of islands prone to earthquakes—adds another layer of challenge, calling for rigorous safety assessments and community engagement.
Critics have often focused on the potential for disasters, drawing from past incidents globally, prompting the public to question whether the benefits of nuclear energy genuinely outweigh the risks inherent to its use.
President Prabowo Subianto’s administration must navigate these concerns carefully. Engaging the public and stakeholders throughout the planning and implementation phases will be pivotal to calming fears of nuclear energy and fostering wider acceptance among the populace.
Indonesia's goals will require collaboration with international partners experienced in nuclear energy to build capability, technology transfer, and adherence to stringent safety protocols. Countries with successful nuclear projects might serve as valuable models for Indonesia's development of this energy policy.
Looking forward, Prabowo Subianto’s nuclear energy initiative will inevitably shape the broader narrative surrounding the nation’s commitment to combating climate change and transitioning toward renewable energy. If successful, this plan could position Indonesia as a regional leader, setting precedents for other Southeast Asian countries contemplating similar paths.
Not only could the transition to nuclear energy provide Indonesia with the capacity for increased energy supply and reduced greenhouse emissions, but it could also symbolize the broader success of Prabowo Subianto’s economic policies through sustainable development.
All eyes will be on the feasibility of these ambitious plans and how Penguasa Indonesia navigates both the opportunities and challenges they bring. The economic blueprint necessitates careful planning and communication with stakeholders at all levels to forge trust and consensus.
The next few years will shape the course of Indonesia’s energy future, determining whether the nation can rise from its fossil fuel dependency to become one of the pioneers of nuclear energy utilization, demonstrating the potential for economic resurgence aligned with environmental responsibility.