The transformation from fossil to renewable energy is a global agenda requiring multi-sector collaboration.
The government has set a target to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2060. However, coal utilization still accounts for 61% of electricity generation in Indonesia.
This is because the country’s energy demand is immense and grows annually. This condition poses the greatest challenge to reducing Indonesia’s dependence on fossil energy, especially coal.
Moreover, Indonesia remains the largest coal exporter globally, even as global market demand for coal declines due to commitments to climate change mitigation.
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia (MPR-RI) Eddy Soeparno stated that fossil energy remains the dominant choice because it can generate large amounts of energy at minimal cost.
However, the government is committed to reducing fossil fuel use by implementing various programs to accelerate the transition to cleaner energy.
“This energy transition is not just a government initiative but also involves the private sector. The private sector’s capacity for conducting in-depth research, production, and distribution is a key consideration. We need power wheeling because the government alone cannot handle it,” Soeparno said during the Energy Seminar titled “The Urgency of Energy Transition to Prevent Climate Change,” held in the Multimedia Room of UGM’s Central Office.
According to Soeparno, Indonesia must support its commitment to energy transformation, considering the various impacts of climate change in recent years.
“Last December, we recorded the highest temperature increase in several regions, reaching 38 degrees. We are no longer just experiencing climate change, but a climate crisis,” Soeparno said.
He added that it is possible that, in the coming years, the Earth’s average temperature will continue to rise, threatening life on the planet. Addressing the climate crisis requires crisis management, not just business as usual (BAU).
Professor Djati Mardiatno, head of UGM’s Center for Environmental Studies (PSLH UGM), highlighted several efforts needed to implement energy transition programs. One such effort is conducting in-depth studies to reduce fossil fuel use in industries, vehicles, and power plants.
“The transition must balance energy security. It is crucial that renewable energy has a capacity equal to energy needs and remains stable. Energy must be accessible and efficient for the public,” Professor Mardiatno explained.
He also pointed to the phenomenon during the pandemic, when climate change slowed significantly due to reduced human activity that generates carbon.
Additionally, to achieve renewable energy security, there must be motivation through subsidies or incentives for renewable energy utilization, along with innovation in research and technology.
Dr. Arie Sujito, UGM’s Vice Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, stated that UGM consistently supports the energy transition through research, innovation, and community education.
According to him, the commitment to supporting the energy transition should be realized through multi-sector cooperation and even by every individual.
“This is not a simple issue. It’s not just about people cutting down trees or littering. This is the accumulated impact of our activities as humans. It’s time we shift and pay attention to this issue,” he urged.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photographer: Donnie