Natural Gas Can Be A Solution To Reduce LPG Imports

Illustration (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - In order to suppress or reduce dependence on LPG imports, the application of energy diversification needs to be carried out more massively by utilizing various sources of natural data that exist in the country.

According to member of the National Energy Council, Satya Widya Yudha, there are a number of ways to reduce LPG imports. One of them is increasing the use of natural gas, especially as household fuel.

"Gas can be used for power, industry and households," said Satya, in an official statement in Jakarta, Friday, April 8.

Satya previously also said that in order to reduce LPG imports, it could also be done by producing 500 thousand tons of Rich Gas per year starting in 2022. In addition, by increasing LPG production from the development of oil refineries.

"The fifth step is to develop DME & methanol from BUMN IUP and extended PKP2B," he explained. According to Satya, encouraging the use of electric stoves can also be a solution to reduce LPG imports, the source of electrical energy can be a substitute for LPG as household fuel.

"The use of electric stoves for households with competitive energy use and continuity of electricity supply," said Satya.

By taking various steps to reduce imported gas, Indonesia can save a budget of US$4 billion per year from 2021 to 2040. Of course, this will have an impact on the State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN).

Satya also detailed that in 2030 Indonesia's LPG needs will be 9.7 million tons. If there are no imports, then the fulfillment comes from 1.2 million existing LPG, 1.1 million jargas, 2.1 million electric stoves, 0.5 million rich gas, 1.8 million LPG from refineries, DMe and 3 million Methanol.