The energy sector in Indonesia is experiencing a paradigm shift with the country’s largest state-owned energy enterprise launching a massive clean energy project. This historic project embodies more than the innovations it is going to incorporate. It is a means for the country to achieve energy freedom. This project is timely, given the world’s desperation for a good source of green hydrogen production. The project will set the tone for the whole of Southeast Asia.
Hydrogen production from geothermal energy enters the construction stage
Recently, PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy celebrated the historic event of the groundbreaking ceremony of the Ulubelu Green Hydrogen Pilot Project. This is a groundbreaking event for the company and for the entire Indonesian energy industry, marking the beginning of the company’s maiden journey into the production of hydrogen energy. It is pertinent to note that the company is embarking on the production of hydrogen energy through the existing geothermal resource of the company.
This technology will allow Indonesia to be one of the forerunners worldwide in taking advantage of this cutting-edge solution for the production of green hydrogen. The Anion Exchange Membrane Electrolyzers have various benefits that include efficiency, amongst others. The new installation will therefore be applied for use in various purposes, such as educational institutions, and testing for the feasibility of use. This will involve an analysis of the demand and the quality.
The use of advanced technology is an incredibly powerful production tool
This Ulubeluplant can manufacture a maximum of 100 kilograms of green hydrogen per day with an efficiency level of between 82% and 88% due to the new technology of membrane electrolysis. The efficiency level is an important milestone for the new Indonesian market for the hydrogen economy, with respect to the effective use of the geothermal energy system for the manufacture of hydrogen gas. The energy demand of this energy plant will be met by harnessing Ulubelu geothermal electric power. According to,
“This project could be seen as a strategic stepping stone for Indonesia to position itself within the global supply chain of clean energy. It also allows the transportation sector, as well as the industry, to transition to a clean mode of production.” The power station is expected to be completed by 2026. It could then be replicated at other sites where geothermal resources are found.
Strategic expansion is closely related to the national goals of the energy transition
The green hydrogen pilot project is perfectly in line with Indonesia’s target of achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2060 and is an essential part of the transformation of the Pertamina Group into a world-class cleaner energy company. Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung praised the efforts of Pertamina Geothermal Energy for embarking on a business transformation process that involves not only geothermal energy but also green hydrogen production.
This shows that RE can support and eventually displace fossil fuel production in conventional energy companies. The project also provides the framework within which the regulations, standards, and business models of hydrogen in Indonesia could be replicated across the whole region. The future expansion of the project includes the development of green ammonia and green methanol that could be utilized as clean energy sources or raw materials in other industrial processes.
The Ulubelu Green Hydrogen Pilot Project is a groundbreaking occasion for the Indonesian energy industry because it supports a successful transformation of traditional energy firms into sustainable industries. This undertaking makes Indonesia a leader in Southeast Asia regarding hydrogen production on the basis of geothermal power. It also has a positive effect on global actions to protect the environment and combat climate change.
