Nusantara Capital City Authority reveals interest from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to invest in the new and renewable energy sector in Indonesia’s new capital city project.

The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) has disclosed that Middle Eastern nations have demonstrated keen interest in investing in the new and renewable energy (NRE) sector within IKN Nusantara, located in East Kalimantan. Bapak Agung Wicaksono, OIKN’s Deputy for Funding and Investment, made this announcement during an online discussion held in Jakarta on Monday, detailing the emerging investment prospects.

Pak Wicaksono revealed that countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have expressed intentions to channel investments ranging from US$5-10 billion towards the development of renewable energy infrastructure within IKN. This initiative aligns with ongoing endeavours by state-run electricity company, PT PLN, in collaboration with Sembcorp Utilities Pte. Ltd from Singapore, to establish renewable energy projects in the region.

Highlighting the significance of this prospective partnership, Wicaksono emphasized plans to expand cooperation with these Middle Eastern investors, considering them as strategic allies for advancing renewable energy initiatives within IKN. Sembcorp Utilities Pte. Ltd, a prominent energy company based in Singapore, is poised to contribute to this endeavor by spearheading the construction of a Solar Power Plant (PLTS) within IKN.

The IKN Master Plan, as outlined in Law Number 3 of 2022 concerning the National Capital, underscores the imperative for sustainable energy practices within the new capital city. It mandates that 100 percent of IKN’s annual electricity requirements be met through renewable energy sources, including solar power plants and rooftop solar panels. The integrated electricity system within IKN encompasses various sources, including solar farm generators, rooftop installations, street lighting panels, and floating solar panels, necessitating a robust network for efficient distribution.

To realize this ambitious target, IKN is slated to implement a smart grid infrastructure, facilitating the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and optimizing energy distribution. This advanced network system, equipped with digital communication technology, enables bidirectional flow of electricity and data, empowering proactive responses to changing energy demands and enhancing overall efficiency.

In pursuit of the overarching goal of achieving 100 percent renewable energy reliance, IKN aims to surpass its energy production from natural gas with solar energy exports. This strategic objective underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and underscores its aspiration to become a model for eco-friendly urban development.

Source: Antara News