- Indonesia plans to increase its renewable energy share to 35% by 2034, with 70% of new electricity capacity from renewables.
- The new plan includes 17 GW of solar, 16 GW of hydro, and 5 GW of geothermal power while adding 5 GW of coal capacity.
- During the renewable energy transition, Indonesia continues to build 15 GW of gas power to support demand, especially in Java.
On Tuesday, February 11, Indonesia’s government announced that it plans to increase its share of renewable energy in electricity supply over the next decade, prioritising solar, hydro, and geothermal power.
The new electricity plan, Rencana Umum Penyediaan Tenaga Listrik (RUPTL), will replace the 2021-2030 version. This revised plan targets 71 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity, with 70% coming from renewable sources—the previous plan aimed for 52% from renewables. Kartika Wirjoatmodjo, deputy State-Owned Enterprise Minister, said the country will raise the share of renewables in its energy mix from around 12% to 35% by 2034.
Speaking at a business forum in Jakarta, Wirjoatmodjo outlined the new plan. It includes 17 GW of solar power with battery storage support, 16 GW of hydropower, and 5 GW of geothermal energy. Wind and bioenergy will also contribute.
Despite the renewable push, Indonesia will still proceed with some coal projects. Around 5 GW of new coal capacity will come online by 2034. Wirjoatmodjo explained that these projects continue with the previous plan and remain necessary for the energy transition.
Indonesia banned new coal power plants in 2022. However, the government allows projects already in progress or linked to the natural resources processing industry as long as they include an emission reduction plan.
The country also plans to build 15 GW of gas power capacity by 2034. This will help meet demand, particularly in Java, and maintain base load capacity as renewable sources scale up.
The government is finalising discussions on the new RUPTL with the state utility, Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN). Once complete, the plan will guide Indonesia’s energy development for the next decade.
Indonesia’s renewable energy push aligns with global efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions. As one of the world’s largest coal producers, the country aims to shift to a cleaner energy mix. The new plan reflects its commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Renewable energy advocates support the plan, viewing it as a step toward reducing Indonesia’s carbon footprint. However, some critics argue the continued reliance on coal and gas may slow the transition to a fully renewable energy system.
Overall, the new electricity plan significantly shifts Indonesia’s energy strategy. The country is setting a course for a more sustainable energy future by increasing the focus on renewables, especially solar and hydro. Though challenges remain, the plan outlines a clear path to boost the share of renewable energy and reduce dependence on coal.