PLN Utilizes FABA As Raw Material For Paving And Batako

Electricity (Photo: dock. Antara)

PT PLN (Persero), the Main Unit of the West Nusa Tenggara Region (UIW NTB) through PLN UPK Tambora in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, has implemented the use of Fly Ash and Bottom Ash (FABA) as raw materials for paving blocks and bricks.

"This initiative not only offers innovative environmental solutions, but also has a positive economic impact on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Sumbawa region," said General Manager of PLN UIW NTB Sudjarwo quoting Antara.

According to him, FABA, which is waste from the coal burning process at PLTU, can now become an alternative raw material for the production of paving blocks and bricks.

This program, he said, provides economic benefits for MSME actors in Sumbawa, as well as supports more sustainable waste management efforts.

He conveyed that this initiative is a strategic step in managing environmentally friendly and sustainable waste, and has an economic impact on MSME players in Sumbawa.

"The success of the use of FABA is a strategic step in supporting the management of industrial waste that is more environmentally friendly and sustainable because this program not only provides solutions to waste problems, but also has an economic impact on MSME players in Sumbawa," he said.

He also ensured that PLN continued to maintain its commitment to carry out various innovations in waste management and support the local economy.

Through the FABA utilization program, he explained, PLN is not only trying to reduce the environmental impact of power generation operations, but also encourage economic growth at the local level.

PLN hopes that this program can be an example in the management of innovative and sustainable industrial waste. In addition, PLN will continue to provide assistance to MSME players in utilizing FABA and ensuring the quality and sustainability of this program.

One of the MSMEs that felt the economic impact of using FABA was an entrepreneur in Taliwang District, West Sumbawa Regency, Karya Bangun.

Karya Bangun runs a paving block and bricks production business by utilizing FABA as a substitute for its production raw materials. The business has been running since 2022 after receiving assistance from a bricks printing machine from PLN.

The use of FABA as a substitute for raw materials and additional assistance for printing machines has increased its operating income by 20 percent.

"With the existence of FABA as raw material, our production costs are lower. In addition, the quality of the products produced is also not inferior to conventional raw materials. This really helps us in developing our business and increasing revenue," said Karya Bangun.

The manager of PLN UPK Tambora, Doddy Rizqi, explained that his party is very proud to be able to make a real contribution to MSMEs in West Sumbawa through the use of FABA.

"This program not only helps reduce industrial waste, but also provides more affordable raw materials for MSMEs, so as to increase their income." he said.

During the two years using FABA, Karya Bangun's efforts have succeeded in utilizing around 1.4 tons of FABA, with a total production of 100,000 bricks and 440,000 paving blocks.

The bricks and paving block products are marketed to customers on Sumbawa Island, ranging from individual customers to companies such as residential property entrepreneurs, hotels, and mining companies.