Indonesia Advances Rural Electrification with 2 MW Solar Projects in Sumenep, Backed by PLN and Danantara

PT PLN (Persero) has signed a Joint Operation Agreement (KSO) with the Sumenep Regency Government to develop and operate two solar power plants (PLTS), each with a capacity of 1 MWp, supported by battery storage systems, in a move aimed at expanding clean energy access in remote regions.

The agreement, facilitated by Danantara Indonesia, covers installations equipped with 4 MWh Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and was formalized in Jakarta. The projects are funded through a grant from the Torang IWIP Berbakti Foundation.

The initiative is expected to provide 24-hour electricity access to around 2,000 households in Gili Labak Hamlet and Pagerungan Kecil Village, located in Sumenep Regency. The systems are also projected to save approximately 1.1 million liters of diesel annually, supporting Indonesia’s transition away from fossil fuel-based power.

Supporting National Dedieselization Goals

Speaking at the event, Rosan Perkasa Roeslani said the project aligns with the government’s push to replace diesel power plants with renewable energy solutions such as solar. He noted that Indonesia aims to scale solar capacity to 100 GW in the coming years to strengthen energy self-sufficiency.

The installations will serve as a pilot project for similar initiatives across underserved regions, particularly in 3T areas—underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions—where reliable electricity access remains a challenge.

Addressing Energy Access in Remote Islands

Sumenep Regency, an archipelago comprising 126 islands, of which 48 are inhabited, faces significant geographic challenges in electrification. Previously, residents in Gili Labak relied on private generators, while Pagerungan Kecil depended on limited solar capacity after diesel plants became non-operational.

The new solar-plus-storage systems are expected to enhance reliability and reduce dependence on costly and polluting diesel generation.

Collaborative Push for Energy Transition

Darmawan Prasodjo emphasized that the initiative reflects strong cross-sector collaboration in accelerating Indonesia’s energy transition and rural electrification goals. He added that PLN will expedite project implementation to ensure timely delivery of reliable electricity to local communities.

Meanwhile, Achmad Fauzi Wongsojudo welcomed the initiative, highlighting its importance in improving electrification rates and living standards across the region.

The project underscores Indonesia’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy deployment, reduce diesel dependency, and ensure equitable access to electricity through collaborative public-private efforts.