The cause of frequent power outages in Java and Bali? Here's the explanation

The cause of frequent power outages in Java and Bali (Image Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - The cause of frequent power outages in Java and Bali has become a major complaint of the public lately. The frequent power outages in the Java and Bali regions not only disrupt daily activities, but also have a significant impact on the economy, education, business, and public comfort. As the largest electricity system in Indonesia, PLN Java-Bali should be able to provide a stable electricity supply. However, various technical, operational, and environmental factors cause this problem to continue to recur.

The Causes of Frequent Power Outages in Java and Bali

1. Electricity Demand Soaring High

One of the causes of frequent power outages in Java and Bali is the imbalance between electricity demand and supply. Rapid population growth, industrial development, and increased use of electronic devices such as air conditioners, chargers, and household appliances make the electricity load jump sharply. In the dry season or extreme hot weather, electricity demand often exceeds the available reserve margin.

Many Steam Power Plants (PLTU) operate with low fuel reserves. As a result, when one power plant unit experiences a disruption, staggered or total blackout cannot be avoided in the Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, East Java, and Bali regions.

2. Transmission and Distribution Infrastructure Disruption

The old electrical infrastructure is the main contributor to the problem. Disruptions to the 500 kV transmission network often trigger mass blackouts. A well-known case is the massive blackout in 2019 triggered by a disruption in Ungaran-Pemalang. In Bali, a total blackout has occurred due to damage to the submarine cable connecting the Java-Bali system.

In addition, the High Voltage Air Channel (SUTT) is vulnerable to external disturbances such as fallen trees, strong winds, lightning, flooding, and even vandalism. The network that crosses mountainous and forested areas makes routine maintenance a challenge in itself.

3. Fuel and Maintenance Problems of the Plant

The supply of coal that is not smooth is often a trigger. Delays in ship delivery due to bad weather or strict regulations cause fuel stocks at power plants to run out. Some plants are forced to operate below optimal capacity, so that system reserves decrease drastically.

Unplanned maintenance of the plant also often triggers cascading failures. When one unit is under maintenance, the electricity load is transferred to another unit which is sometimes unable to bear it, causing a chain blackout in various areas.

Other Supporting Factors

Extreme Weather: Heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding often cause damage to distribution networks. Increased Consumption: The continued increase in household and industrial electricity use is not matched by the addition of new generating capacity. Project Delays: The development of new power plants and transmission networks is often delayed due to bureaucratic, funding, and licensing factors.

Impacts and Solutions that Can Be Done

The cause of frequent power outages in Java and Bali has caused economic losses of billions of rupiah each incident. Industries stop production, hospitals rely on generators, and the tourism sector in Bali is disrupted. PLN continues to work to improve the system by strengthening interconnection, diversifying renewable energy (geothermal, solar, and wind), and implementing smart grids for early detection.

Short-term solutions include increasing fuel stocks, routine tree trimming on transmission lines, and rapid infrastructure repairs. Meanwhile, long-term solutions are accelerating the development of new plants, network modernization, and encouraging the use of green energy.

The public can also help by using electricity sparingly and wisely. With the transparency of information from PLN and the cooperation of all parties, it is hoped that the stability of electricity supply in Java-Bali can improve immediately.

The causes of frequent power outages in Java and Bali are complex and require thorough handling. Keep monitoring official information from PLN so that you can prepare yourself when an emergency blackout occurs. Read also: Warganet Complains of Bills Rising 2 Times, Here's PLN's Explanation

So after knowing the cause of frequent power outages in Java and Bali, check out other interesting news at VOI.ID, it's time to revolutionize reporting!