YOGYAKARTA – Member of National Energy Board and Dean of Faculty of Engineering Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. Ir. Tumiran, M.Eng., has urged the Government to cut fuel and electricity subsidies that are estimated to reach as much as 200 trillions in 2012. According to Tumiran, such subsidies would not reach the target as they will be wasted on consumptive spending of the haves. “These should be reduced gradually. The haves should be asked to be efficient,” Tumiran said to reporters on the sidelines of the Workshop on Development of New and Renewable Energy, held at the Plaza KPTU of Faculty of Engineering on Wednesday (21/9).
Apart from saving state budget, the reduction in subsidies can also be allocated to carry out other Government programmes, such as development acceleration in road infrastructure and electricity that can generate economic growth and recruitment of thousands of workers. Besides, the fund can be allocated to help develop renewable energy programmes. “It is because we’re left behind in terms of renewable energy programmes,” he said.
The renewable energy programmes in Indonesia, according to Tumiran, have to be supported by Government and Parliamentary in terms of policy, pricing regulations and socio-political aspects because the programmes cost much money. Therefore, the development and use of renewable energy should be the responsibility of the central as well as local governments. “Regions should also pay attention to energy issues,” he said.
Tumiran said the use of renewable energy in Indonesia is still very minimal while the Government plans to reach a target of new and renewable energy contribution up to 25% of the total energy need in 2025 and 40% in 2050. Some blocks, however, are yet to be found in realising this target, particularly in technology and environment.
According to Tumiran, Indonesia needs to learn from other countries that are more progressive in the use of new and renewable energy. One of those is Sweden. “Currently, Sweden’s electricity energy production has reached 50% from renewable energy, such as hydro energy, biomass and city organic waste and wind energy,” he said.
Tumiran explained the Faculty of Engineering UGM is now partnering with Sweden in research and development of new and renewable energy. One of the forms is the use of fruit waste at the Gamping market that is transformed into electricity. It has been initiated by the Faculty and University of Boras, Sweden, Sleman Regency Government and Boras City Government.