Masdar and PLN NP agree to triple the size of ASEAN’s largest floating solar plant, By Stephen White
Masdar, the UAE’s leading clean energy company, and its collaborator, PLN Nusantara Power (PLN NP), just recently released the announcement of Phase II of the expansion of the Cirata floating photovoltaic (FPV) power plant in Indonesia, which White states will become “operational later this year”. This next phase marks a significant milestone for the region as the CirataFPV plans to expand its capacity to up to 500 MW. Not only is this a major step toward meeting Indonesia’s renewable energy goals, but also has far-reaching implications for Southeast Asia’s clean energy landscape.
Cirata Floating Photovoltaic (FPV)
The signing ceremony for this significant milestone was held at the UAE-Indonesia Economic Forum, with prominent dignitaries attending the event. The ceremony signifies the strengthening of clean energy partnerships and aligns with the shared vision of sustainable development. It is essential to note that such collaborations are crucial for global climate action, especially as both countries prepare for COP28, where they plan to prioritize tripling the renewable energy capacity by 2030.
While Phase II of the Cirata FPV power plane is not just about increasing its size; it also signifies a pivotal change in Indonesia’s regulatory framework. The Ministry of Public Works and Housing had recently decided to permit up to %20 of water coverage for renewable energy projects. This policy shift not only opened doors for substantial renewable energy growth in the country, but it became an essential catalyst for Indonesia’s transition towards cleaner sources and its ultimate goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
White notes in this article, that the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA suggests that “scaling up renewables could save Indonesia up to US $51.7 billion per year, considering the impacts on [reducing] air pollution and [mitigating] climate change.” In that case, the expansion not only contributes to Indonesia; ‘s clean energy objectives, but also has the potential to boost the nation’s economy by reducing energy costs and improving air quality.
Masdar’s work is playing a pivotal role in Indonesia’s clean energy transformations. While expanding Southeast Asia’s largest FPV plant is Masdar’s broader portfolio, the company has ventured into the geothermal energy sector through investments in Pertamina Geothermal Energy. It is apparent that Masdar’s commitment to renewable energy growth in Southeast Asia aligns with its ambitious goal of reaching 100 GW of electricity generation capacity and producing 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.
The expansion of the CirataFPV power plant in Indonesia is a significant development and serves as a model for other countries in Southeast Asia and beyond. It not only reflects the commitment of the UAE and Indonesia to clean energy goals at a larger scale but also showcases the potential for renewable energy growth and economic benefits in the region. This collaboration is a powerful example of how international cooperation can address the global environmental challenges we face and help nations transition toward a sustainable and greener future. The expansion of the Cirata FPV power plant is not just a business deal; it’s a beacon of hope.
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