Starting Co-Firing, PLN EPI Says It Needs 10.2 Million Tons Of Biomass In 2025

Illustration (Photo: Doc. Antara)

PT PLN (Persero) is developing biomass as an alternative raw material for clean energy to reduce carbon emissions, one of which is through a co-firing program or substitution of part coal for Steam Power Plants (PLTU) with biomass from energy plants.

Vice President of Procurement, Control and Logistics of PLN Energi Primary Indonesia (EPI), Erfan Julianto revealed, in 2025, PLN EPI will require a supply of biomass of up to 10.2 million tons per year.

"The development of the green economy ecosystem and other biomass sources will continue to be carried out by PLN EPI to strengthen the supply chain of biomass," Erfan said in a statement to the media, Tuesday, September 19.

He detailed, this year, the ratio of co-firing technology in PLTU is 1 to 3 percent with a volume of 573 thousand tons of biomass.

By 2025, the cofiring technology ratio will be increased to 10 percent, so a supply of biomass of up to 10.2 million tons is needed per year.

Forestry products used by PLN EPI such as sawdust, wood chips and wood pellets are one of the forestry superior products.

"Through this technology, it is not only beneficial for PLN but also for the wider community because the development of energy forests and the use of this barren land is in accordance with the principle of circular economy or the people's economy," said Erfan.

The Pilot Project for the development of the green economy ecosystem in Gunung Kidul will also be replicated by PLN EPI in several other parts of Indonesia.

Without having to interfere with the community's productive land, PLN will actually use barren land and land to become productive land that is not only beneficial for the supply chain of energy but also encourages the community's economy.

"With the potential for critical land and the potential for land rehabilitation of 12 million hectares that can be utilized. In the future, through government support, we will utilize this land so that it can provide a better multiplier effect for the environment and society," concluded Erfan.