PLN Operates PLTU Sintang Without Coal

PLTU illustration (photo: between)

JAKARTA - PT PLN (Persero) through its subsidiary PLN Indonesia Power (PLN IP) has succeeded in utilizing 100 percent biomass for coal replacement fuel at the Sintang Steam Power Plant (PLTU), West Kalimantan Province.

PLN Indonesia Power President Director Edwin Nugraha Putra revealed that the use of biomass in PLTU is a form of PLN IP consistency to support PLN in leading the energy transition in Indonesia. PLTU Sintang with a capacity of 3x7 Megawatt (MW) has become the first PLTU and has been operating continuously since December 14, 2023.

"Continuing the success story in testing the use of 100 percent biomass in January 2023, PLTU Sintang succeeded in becoming the first fossil plant capable of operating using 100 percent palm shell fuel and wood chipps," said Edwin in his official statement, Tuesday, December 19.

From the results of the Sintang PLTU research, said Edwin, the calories owned by the palm shell are 4,100 kcal per kg higher than coal calories, which is 3,700 kcal per kg. In addition, the calories for the mix of biomass of palm shells and woodchips are also still higher, which is 3,732 kcal per kg.

"The plan is that the Sintang PLTU will fully operate using biomass fuel in a continuous manner by looking at the availability of biomass," added Edwin.

He added that the challenge of using 100 percent biomass in PLTU is the availability of biomass itself. In an effort to maintain the availability of biomass supply, PLN IP collaborates with the subholding of PLN Energi Primary Indonesia (EPI) and local stakeholders.

The Regent of Sintang Regency, Jarot Winarno, fully appreciates and supports PLN Group's efforts to utilize biomass as power generation fuel. This effort is in line with regional policies in the Sintang Regent Regulation Number 82 of 2022 concerning the Utilization of Biomass as a Source of EBT.

"We really appreciate the efforts made by PLN Group in reducing the amount of palm oil waste that is processed into electrical energy. The most important thing is clean energy, we maintain green energy," said Winarno.

Head of the Sintang Regency Environment Agency, Edy Harmaini added, the implementation of biomass cofiring at PLTU Sintang is very supportive of the circular economy around the PLTU area. He considered, this is a big step for the energy transition.

"Hopefully this implementation can be implemented more widely in the West Kalimantan region in particular, and Indonesia in general. For the sake of the realization of a clean environment, a blue sky and air that is free from pollution," concluded Harmaini.