Indonesia is taking ambitious steps towards transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Although the country remains economically reliant on fossil fuels, the government is considering building nuclear power plants with a total capacity of about 4 gigawatts (GW).

Indonesia's energy infrastructure is characterized by its heavy reliance on coal. The installed capacity of power plants in the country exceeds 90 GW, with more than half of this capacity coming from coal-fired stations. Renewable energy sources account for less than 15% of electricity production, highlighting the need for diversifying energy sources.

Nuclear Energy as a Solution

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, advisor to President Prabowo Subianto, announced plans to build nuclear power plants. This decision represents a strategic move towards reducing the country's carbon footprint. Among the initiatives, the construction of floating small modular reactors is also being discussed, although specific timelines and numbers remain unspecified.

1. Reduction of Carbon Emissions: Transitioning to nuclear energy can significantly reduce carbon emissions, aligning with global trends in sustainable development.

2. Increasing the Share of Clean Energy: Indonesia's plans include boosting the share of clean energy in the overall energy mix, thereby decreasing reliance on coal-based power.

3. Strategic Development: Nuclear power plants are expected to become operational by 2036, marking a significant milestone in the country's energy policy.

Challenges and Concerns

A contentious aspect of introducing nuclear energy in Indonesia is the seismic risk. The country is located in a seismically active region, which necessitates additional safety measures in the construction and operation of nuclear power plants.

Key Challenges

- Seismic Safety: Comprehensive studies and architectural solutions are required to ensure the safety of nuclear facilities.

- Social Acceptance: Introducing nuclear energy requires broad public consent, considering the potential risks.

- Investment in Technology: Significant investments in science and technology are needed to realize such large-scale projects.

Indonesia's plans to develop nuclear energy showcase its commitment to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. These actions can serve as an example for other countries striving to balance economic development with environmental responsibility.