PLN NP Ujicobakan Carbon Capture and Storage Based on Algae First in Indonesia

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AKARTA - PLN Nusantara Power Generation Unit (UP) Muara Karang officially carried out a test of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology using the first Micro Algae Photobioreactor (FBR) in the national energy sector. This innovation follows the previous success as an initiator of Green Hydrogen production.

Director of Corporate Planning and Business Development of PT PLN (Persero) Hartanto Wibowo explained that the FBR Micro Algae technology which has been operating since the end of March 2026 was designed to capture carbon emissions effectively. With a capacity of 3,000 liters, this reactor is capable of absorbing CO2 exhaust gas from the PLTGU Block 3 Muara Karang with an impressive efficiency rate ranging from 70 percent to 90 percent with an average overall CO2 capture efficiency of 75 percent.

"The emissions produced must be captured through the Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage model. Through PLN Nusantara Power's breakthrough in testing carbon capture from algae and if successful it will open up great opportunities for Indonesia in reducing carbon emissions. PLTGU Muara Karang is also the first initiator in Indonesia in producing Green Hydrogen," said Hartanto, Saturday, April 18.

According to him, this innovation is able to process CO2 emissions which reach 4-6 percent of the total flue gas and has a Green CCS concept, namely utilizing natural organisms (algae) to absorb carbon, in line with the principle of sustainability. This innovation not only focuses on reducing emissions, but also creates economic added value through the circular economy concept.

PLN Nusantara Power President Director Ruly Firmansyah emphasized that the success at the Muara Karang PLTGU is an important foundation for the development of decarbonization technology in the future. PLN NP plans to replicate this innovation in other power units to expand the positive impact on the environment.

"PLTGU Block 3 Muara Karang produces CO2 emissions of 4-6 percent of the total flue gas. Through this photobioreactor technology, we get encouraging results, where the rate of CO2 emission capture ranges from 70 to 90 percent of the flue gas. Every month we also get side products of solid and liquid algae biomass that can be processed into a source of fish feed and natural fertilizer," continued Rully.

For information, the Muara Karang PLTGU has a total installed capacity of 2,105 MW. The Muara Karang PLTGU also supports the electricity needs in the VVIP area, especially the Presidential Palace, the DPR, MPR, Ministry buildings, as well as international airports and MRT.