PLN To Develop Micro-Hydro Generator To Supply Power For F1 Powerboat Event

Illustration of F1 Powerboat (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - PT PLN (Persero) will utilize electricity based on New and Renewable Energy (EBT) to support the international event of the F1 Powerboat superfast boat racing competition (F1H2O) in Balige, Toba Regency, North Sumatra on the upcoming 24-26 February 2023.

PLN is preparing two Micro Hydro Power Plants (PLTMH) to become the main supply of electricity as a form of commitment to support clean energy.

Main Director of PLN, Darmawan Prasodjo explained that during this international event, PLN will operate PLTMH Hutaraja with a capacity of 2x2.5 megawatts (MW) and PLTMH Aek Silang 2 with a capacity of 2x5 MW. These two new generators also add to the EBT mix in North Sumatra which reaches 43.47 percent.

Apart from being supplied with clean energy, to be able to apply the Zero Down Time (ZDT) scheme in this international event, PLN is strengthening it with a 20 kilo Volt (kV) back-up network. PLN is modifying the network so that it will make it easier to regulate electricity distribution and maintain the quality of the voltage that will be sent to Balige.

"PLN has prepared an electricity supply from an EBT power plant for this event. This proves that PLN is ready to support national and international events with a reliable and environmentally friendly power supply," said Darmawan.

On another occasion, General Manager of the North Sumatra Main Distribution Unit, Tonny Bellamy, explained that the construction of the main network and back-up network had been completed.

"In the near future, PLN will carry out a simulation of electricity security prior to the implementation of an international event. The hope is that these safeguards will work properly, so that if unwanted disturbances occur they can be resolved quickly," said Tonny.

2023 is the first year of implementing the F1 Powerboat super-fast boat race with the aim of promoting Indonesian tourism internationally. The implementation of F1H2O will also be attended by Micro Small Enterprises (UMK) actors.

It was recorded that 26 MSEs participated in selling domestically made products at the event location. Various local products will enliven this international event.