The use of geothermal energy has long been associated primarily with electricity generation. However, researchers at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) are demonstrating that geothermal potential goes far beyond its conventional function.
In Lahendong, North Sulawesi, geothermal silica deposits, by-products of geothermal fluid, are now being innovatively transformed into agricultural enhancers and plant growth boosters.
According to studies, these deposits contain approximately 60 elements and compounds with properties similar to those of volcanic ash, making them effective for enriching soil. The deposits are processed using nanotechnology into a liquid form that can be readily absorbed by plants.
This breakthrough is the result of interdisciplinary collaboration. UGM experts, including geothermal specialist Dr. Pri Utami, nanotechnology expert Dr. Ronny Martien, and soil and water conservation specialist Dr. Ngadisih, worked with PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Lahendong Unit (PT PGE) to develop a liquid agricultural booster named Katrili, inspired by a traditional Minahasan dance of gratitude.
The booster is applied by pouring or spraying it onto plants in measured doses. It has undergone laboratory testing and has been proven to be both safe and effective.
“Katrili has shown positive results on four major agricultural commodities in Minahasa: rice, tomatoes, Kawangkoan peanuts, and shallots,” explained Dr. Pri Utami on Thursday (May 29).
This synergy aligns with PT PGE’s vision of making geothermal energy a multi-sectoral solution. PT PGE’s Director of Operations, Ahmad Yani, stated that the Geothermal Beyond Energy approach positions natural resources as sustainable solutions not only for electricity but also for broader societal needs.
This vision creates space for applied research with a direct impact on communities. The nano-silica research from geothermal deposits is a prime example.
Support has also come from local government leaders who recognize the great potential of this innovation. The Regent of Minahasa, Robby Dondokambey, emphasized that the research outcomes are highly relevant to the needs of the Minahasan people, the majority of whom are farmers.
He also expressed hope that Katrili could be distributed to other agricultural regions in Sulawesi and across Indonesia. The success of the field trials reinforces expectations that this locally sourced, eco-friendly innovation can soon be widely adopted.
“This innovation allows the community to directly benefit from the geothermal industry,” said the regent.
The Vice Regent of Minahasa, Vanda Sarundajang, took a hands-on approach by turning her yard in Kawangkoan into a pilot demonstration plot. She cultivated Kawangkoan peanuts using Katrili and invited residents to learn from the initiative.
She hopes that the community can observe the results firsthand and be inspired to adopt sustainable farming practices. This initiative demonstrates how academic innovation can be applied inclusively and practically.
“I want people to see and learn about sustainable agriculture through this locally sourced, environmentally friendly booster,” said Sarundajang.
The success of the field trials culminated in a celebratory harvest on May 26 in Tonsewer Village, Tompaso District, Minahasa Regency. This event marked the fruitful collaboration between academia, industry, and local communities.
Attendees included local government officials, the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), PT PGE management, and UGM representatives from the Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM) and the Faculty of Agricultural Technology (FTP UGM).
The harvest was carried out with local farmers and concluded with the Katrili dance, performed by all attendees as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation.
Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Cooperation at FT UGM, Dr. Ali Awaludin, expressed hope that other geothermal fields in Indonesia with similar deposits could adopt this approach to address the challenges of fertilizer shortages and environmental degradation.
During a dialogue session with farmers, field experiences were openly shared. Farmers from the men’s groups of the Minahasa Protestant Church Synod (KGPM) and the Christian Evangelical Church in Minahasa (GMIM) reported that Katrili remained effective during dry spells, rainy seasons, and even extreme weather.
The booster helped increase agricultural productivity while reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. They also noted improvements in soil quality and plant resilience against disease.
Through interdisciplinary research focused on community needs, UGM continues to support farmers in building self-reliance and sustainably managing local resources, marking a step forward toward a more just, healthy, and sustainable future in agriculture.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographs: Courtesy of Pri Utami