The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources confirms that Mount Lawu is not included in the geothermal area of operation

منذ 5 ساعات

Jakarta – The government has confirmed that Mount Lawu is not included in the Geothermal Work Area (GWP). This decision is proof of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources’ (ESDM) commitment to preserving the historical, cultural and spiritual values of the area. It also ensures that energy development is carried out with great care. “We emphasize that Mount Lawu is not included in the Geothermal Work Area. There is no auction process or exploration activities in the area. The government adheres to the principle of caution and respect for the cultural and spiritual values of the community,” said the Director General of New, Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, in19200/00, Sunday said. The geothermal development plan on Mount Lawu was actually proposed in 2018. However, after a thorough evaluation, the work area was officially removed in 2023. Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT As a follow-up, the government held an audience in 2024 with the Karanganyar Regency UNS and academics from Sebelas Marets University. From the results of the discussion, Jenawi district was suggested as an alternative location because it is far from cultural heritage areas, spiritual sites and areas closely connected to Mount Lawu. The government clarified that the planned activities in Jenawi were only preliminary survey and exploration (PSPE), not direct exploration or drilling. PSPE begins with a geoscience survey, namely a scientific study to map geothermal potential while ensuring that all cultural sites, sacred areas and conservation forests are not included in the survey area. This study in Jenawi is expected to provide a scientific basis for the use of geothermal energy with a potential of up to 40 megawatts (MW) – equivalent to the electricity needs of more than 40,000 households. “This PSPE is only a preliminary survey. Drilling will be carried out after the preliminary survey results are available that do not affect sacred areas or conservation forests. All stages will be carried out in a transparent and participatory manner,” explains Eniya. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources emphasized that PSPE activities will not be implemented until the entire hearing, socialization and open dialogue process with stakeholders is completed. Taking into account all social, cultural and environmental aspects, it is certain that the Jenawi PSPE will not be carried out in 2025. “We want to ensure that all processes proceed with caution and are acceptable to all parties. As long as the dialogue is still ongoing and the stages are not completed, we will not even carry out the PSPE in Jenawi,” Eniyawi concluded. (acn/ega)