Hydrogen, the most abundant element on Earth, holds significant potential as an energy source. Many advanced countries have begun researching and adopting hydrogen as a renewable energy source.
Indonesia is also preparing to transition to renewable energy, and the UGM Center for Energy Studied (PSE UGM) is currently studying the country’s potential for hydrogen in collaboration with the University of Groningen.
UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia stated that hydrogen energy is a high-density energy source with low carbon emissions. However, she acknowledged that hydrogen implementation in Indonesia faces high costs and logistical issues. Extensive research collaboration is needed to advance this technology.
“At UGM, we are committed to actively researching hydrogen technology,” said the rector at the opening of the summer course themed “Hydrogen’s Role in Energy Transition: Perspective and Challenges.”
This course, organized in partnership with the University of Groningen, aims to provide deep and innovative insights into hydrogen energy.
PSE UGM Expert Team member Professor Deendarlianto discussed the development of a hydrogen valley or ecosystem around UGM’s campus. This ecosystem involves developing, producing, and storing hydrogen energy as part of a long-term collaboration.
“This technological development must be accompanied by a multidisciplinary approach to assist the government in implementing hydrogen in Indonesia,” he said.
Professor Bayu Jayawardhana from the University of Groningen explained the growing adoption of hydrogen technology over the past decade in several countries, including the Netherlands. The collaboration between UGM and the University of Groningen will greatly aid in applying hydrogen energy.
“Our experience and knowledge in Groningen can support the implementation of hydrogen in Indonesia’s unique context,” he stated.
Yvonne Klerks, the Education Attaché at the Dutch Embassy in Jakarta, emphasized the importance of hydrogen energy in the Netherlands, noting it as one of the largest hydrogen users after Germany.
This dedication was further marked by the 2020 G20 agreement between the Indonesian and Dutch governments to combat the climate crisis.
In her address, Klerks expressed her appreciation for the educational collaboration between Indonesian and Dutch universities in this research field.
“We hope this initiative will support research and educational collaboration between the Netherlands and Indonesia,” she said.
PSE UGM Head Professor Sarjiya highlighted hydrogen’s potential as an energy source. The collaboration with the University of Groningen allows UGM and Groningen to transfer knowledge on hydrogen utilization.
“This course will focus on two main aspects: examining hydrogen from policy and technological perspectives,” he explained.
The summer course, running from August 19 to 23, 2024, is designed to offer in-depth and innovative insights into hydrogen energy. Participants will explore hydrogen’s potential as a clean energy source in the first two days and policy strategies for a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem.
From the third day onward, the focus will shift to the latest research and technological innovations in hydrogen production and applications, and challenges and solutions will be discussed.
“Over these five days, participants will have the opportunity to learn from international and national experts and build networks with academics and practitioners in the field of hydrogen energy,” added Professor Sarjiya.
Author: Lazuardi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif