October 14, 2024, Indonesia — Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has requested Japan's support to fund several energy transition projects in Indonesia. This appeal was made during the second Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Summit in Vientiane, Laos, representing President Joko Widodo.
AZEC, an initiative by Japan, aims to facilitate a sustainable, equitable, affordable, and inclusive energy transition. A key principle of AZEC is tailoring energy transitions to the needs and circumstances of each country while supporting sustainable economic development.
Airlangga expressed hopes for full support from the Japanese government to realize strategic AZEC projects through innovative funding and to open opportunities for all business actors and private sectors, contributing to a sustainable inclusive economy in the ASEAN region.
During the meeting, he outlined the progress of AZEC implementation in Indonesia, which includes the formation of the AZEC Expert Group and several ongoing projects.
Current projects include:
Geothermal Project Phase 2 in Muara Laboh
Waste to Energy in Legok Nangka
Crude Coconut Oil Plant for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Pilot Project for Peatland Restoration
Grid Interconnection between Java and Sumatra
Kayan Hydropower Phase I, expected to commence soon
Airlangga reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to energy transition through decarbonizing energy sources and developing green technologies. The country is focusing on massive renewable energy development, particularly solar, hydropower, and geothermal resources, while gradually reducing coal-based power generation.
Indonesia is also prepared to develop a super grid to enhance connectivity and implement carbon capture, utilization, and storage technologies. Additionally, the country aims to promote electric mobility, improve energy efficiency in industries, transportation, and buildings, and explore new energy sources such as small modular reactors, hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, and ammonia.
The second AZEC Summit was co-chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ichiba and Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Yoji Muto, with participation from heads of government or representatives from member countries. Airlangga commended Japan's leadership in fostering a sustainable and clean environment toward net-zero emissions.