German Business Delegation Explores Energy Opportunities in Indonesia’s New Capital

13.09.2024

From September 2 to 5, 2024, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), The German-Indonesian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (EKONID / AHK Indonesien), and the Renewables Academy AG (RENAC) led a German business delegation to Indonesia. The initiative aimed to strengthen partnerships in renewable energy, focusing on Jakarta and Indonesia's new capital, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN) in East Kalimantan. Eleven German companies specializing in energy infrastructure, storage, and smart grids participated, aligning with IKN's goal to source 80% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2045.

Day 1: Briefings and Government Engagements in Jakarta 

The visit began at EKONID's office in Jakarta, where Mrs. Olivia Noor, Head of Market Entry, welcomed the delegation alongside representatives from various energy sectors. Mr. Jonas Präfke of the German Embassy discussed the economic landscape, and Mr. Andreas Zötl from BMWK introduced the German Energy Solutions Initiative. Mrs. Alexandra Lutz of German Export Finance – Euler Hermes outlined financing options for businesses in Indonesia. The delegation engaged in a roundtable highlighting German expertise in energy projects and opportunities in IKN, featuring companies like PT Siemens Indonesia, PT Maharaksa Biru Energi Tbk., and PT Wilo Indonesia. 

The delegation then visited the New and Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) Directorate General at the Energy Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, where Mr. Hendra Iswahyudi, Director of Energy Conservation, Mr. Harris from the EBTKE Survey and Testing Center for Electricity, and Mr. Agus Nurhudoyo from the Planning Bureau, discussed Indonesia’s energy sector, including the aim to achieve 23% renewable energy by 2025 and net-zero emissions by 2060, as well as the need for energy storage solutions for remote areas.  

The day concluded with a visit to the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, where Minister Mochamad Basuki Hadimuljono expressed interest in German waste-to-energy technologies.  

Day 2: Roundtables and Networking  

On the second day, the delegation attended a roundtable with Indonesian energy associations, IKN investors, and selected companies. Ms. Alexandra Engel from EKONID led the session, featuring presentations from Dr. Andhika Prastawa from the Indonesian Society for Energy Conservation and Efficiency (MASKEEI) on sustainable energy practices for IKN and Mr. Widi Pancano of Indonesia Renewable Energy Society (METI/IRES), on integrated renewable solutions. Presentations from Mr. Danny Raharto of TotalEnergies and Mr. Hana Timoti PT Pertamina (Persero) covered energy demands and partnership opportunities. The day included project meetings and a pitching event at Ayana Midplaza Hotel, where German firms showcased their expertise in energy storage, infrastructure, and renewables, followed by B2B networking. 

Day 3: Energy Innovation Visits 

The delegation's third day featured visits to PT PLN Nusantara Power and PT Barito Pacific Group. At PT PLN Nusantara Power, the delegation was given a tour of the Nusantara InnoVision Center, which integrates advanced technology for energy project management. Discussions emphasized the company’s role in ensuring sustainable energy for IKN.  

Afterwards, at PT Barito Pacific Group, Mr. Hendra Soetjpto Tan, President Director of PT Barito Renewables Energy Tbk., highlighted advancements in geothermal energy and sustainable practices. The visit underscored collaboration potential and the company’s impact on Indonesia's energy landscape.  

Days 4 & 5: Exploring IKN’s Development 

The final days provided insights into IKN’s progress as the delegation traveled to the city of Balikpapan in the island of Kalimantan before proceeding to the site of the new capital in the eastern part of the island.  

At IKN, the delegation visited the Technology House, exploring cultural integration and sustainable urban planning through technology. A visit to Nusantara’s Central Government District, or KIPP area, showcased ongoing construction, and the Command Center demonstrated the use of big data and technology in monitoring smart city operations, including solar power performance. 

At the Integrated Waste Processing Site, discussions with Mr. Bagus Satrio Utomo from East Kalimantan Regional Settlement Infrastructure Center covered the nearly complete waste management site, sparking interest from the German waste-to-energy company Goffin. The day concluded with a brief visit to the Sepaku Semoi Dam and a networking dinner in Balikpapan. 

Fostering Bilateral Cooperation  

This delegation visit is a significant step in enhancing German-Indonesian collaboration in renewable energy, positioning German companies as key contributors to IKN’s sustainable development.  

EKONID / AHK Indonesien would like to thank all the delegates, the German and Indonesian governments, the partner institutions, as well as all related stakeholders for their support in ensuring the delegation’s success. 

For more information on the delegation program or partnership opportunities, please contact AHK Indonesien at info(at)ekonid.id.