Judging By The Potential Of Geothermal Energy In Environmentally Friendly Daily Life

Illustration of geothermal energy (Freepic)

JAKARTA - In the midst of intense talks about energy transitions and a sustainable lifestyle, one energy resource often escapes daily discussions, namely geothermal. In fact, Indonesia has abundant 'treasure' and can become a source of clean energy for future mainstays.

Not just energy, but the potential for a new lifestyle that is greener, cleaner, and more sustainable. This year, the spotlight was again directed through The 11th Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition (IRGCE) 2025.

Held by the Indonesian Geothermal Association (API), IIGCE is not only a technology exhibition, but also a moment of national reflection about what the future of our energy should be like. More than just numbers and advanced technology, geothermal issues touch many aspects of our lives, namely the environment, social, economy, to "green" energy.

Ismoyo Argo, Chairman of the IIGCE Committee 2025, emphasized the importance of this event for the collaboration of all industry players.

"This event is an exhibition event for the achievement of companies as well as sharing technology that is able to reduce the risk of geothermal management. We also raise efforts to use the earth for electricity needs with great benefits for social and environmental purposes," he said, when met at The Darmawangsa Jakarta on Monday, April 14.

Talking about geothermal exploration can never be separated from questions about its impact on the environment. Therefore, our lifestyle and awareness are tested. Are you wise enough to take advantage of the natural resources that have been provided by God?

Every human activity has an impact. But we have regulations. We must prepare AMDAL before starting the project. The water used is not from the surface consumed by the community, but fluid from a depth of 1,500 to 2,000 meters," explained Ismoyo.

Issues such as groundwater that runs out or environmental damage due to drilling often appear. However, according to Ismoyo, modern technology is sophisticated enough to minimize these risks.

"We use surface water for employees' needs, it is also recirculated. Even PUPN will not give permission if its management violates," he said.

In the era when we have started to realize that geothermal heat can be part of a clean energy lifestyle. Julfi Hadi, Chairman of the API, called geothermal as the only renewable energy source available at any time.

"Indonesia has the second largest geothermal reserves in the world, around 23.9 GW or 40% of the world's total. This is a local force that can lead us to energy independence," he added.

While some areas of eastern Indonesia still rely on fuel oil for electricity, geothermal has not been utilized optimally. In fact, areas such as Sumatra, Java, Bali to Sulawesi have extraordinary potential.

Kalimantan has not yet found its geothermal potential, but that does not mean it cannot be part of the national clean energy ecosystem.

"If we want a transition, we don't have to be 100% direct. But we have to start. Step by step," said Ismoyo.

IIGCE 2025 which will be held in Jakarta on September 17-19 is not just a business event. This is an open invitation for all parties to be part of the environmentally friendly energy movement. From industry players, governments, environmentally-loving communities, even lifestyle influencers can be involved.

At this event, participants can interact directly with experts, see the latest technology exhibitions, to initiated solutions together. This is a new lifestyle, namely engaging, thinking long, and choosing better ones for the earth and future generations.