Independent Energy Village: Harnessing Solar Energy for Eco-Friendly Agriculture

Palembang, August 11, 2023 – PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sumbagsel, a sub-holding of PT Pertamina (Persero), has realized an innovative solution to enhance local agricultural sustainability in Pulau Semambu Village, Ogan Ilir Regency, through the Independent Energy Village (Desa Energi Berdikari, DEB) program, utilizing Renewable Energy from sunlight to support environmentally friendly farming.

Tjahyo Nikho Indrawan, Area Manager of Communication, Relations & CSR at Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sumbagsel, stated that the DEB program is tangible proof of Pertamina's contribution in mobilizing and empowering communities through renewable energy use.

"The renewable energy use from sunlight in this village goes beyond just lighting; it extends to more substantial needs such as operating crucial water pumps for irrigation," Nikho explained.

Furthermore, Nikho elaborated that farmers in Pulau Semambu Village currently rely on drilled wells as their primary water source for agricultural activities.

"Through solar panels equipped with lithium battery technology for energy storage, they will be capable of producing 8,442 kWh per year. It exemplifies how Renewable Energy can drive more sustainable and efficient farming practices," he added.

Solar energy use provides economic benefits and encourages environmentally friendly agriculture, thus reducing carbon emissions in the environment.

From an economic standpoint, this program nationally impacts over 3,000 households, with a total multiplier effect resulting in approximately Rp1.8 billion in annual benefits.

Additionally, Pertamina's DEB program aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) #7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), point #8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and issue #13 (Climate Action). Through this program, Pertamina supports the Government's target to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2060.

Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communication at Pertamina, added that Independent Energy Village is one of Pertamina's initiatives to stimulate community economies while introducing renewable energy use as a solution for energy self-sufficiency. Another value lies in reducing emissions (decarbonization) within the village environment.

"By providing access to renewable energy within communities, Pertamina can socialize and present the energy transition experience, helping village communities understand the significance of energy in driving economic activities," he explained.

Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.**