Electricity in Indonesia in 2021

Electricity consumption in Indonesia for 2021 was dominated by fossil fuels, primarily coal and gas, contributing 189.96 TWh and 56.26 TWh respectively. Fossil energy, inclusive of oil, amounted to more than 250 TWh, making up the vast majority of the country's energy production. Low-carbon energy maintained a modest presence, with a total of 56.22 TWh split among hydropower, geothermal, and biofuels. Unfortunately, nuclear energy did not form any part of this low-carbon mix. This consumption pattern is far from the global average of 410 watts per person, suggesting significantly lower levels of electricity generation. Such low levels can stunt economic growth, hinder technological advancement, and contribute to poor living standards.

Suggestions

Indonesia can learn from the successful electricity production strategies of other countries to improve its low-carbon energy output. Countries with similar geographical and climatic conditions have effectively harnessed wind, solar, and nuclear power for electricity generation. For instance, wind energy contributes significantly to electricity generation in countries like Brazil and India, with outputs of 94 TWh and 93 TWh respectively, suggesting potential for strong wind energy development in Indonesia. The success of geothermal energy in the People's Republic of China, producing 523 TWh, offers a model for Indonesia with its significant geothermal resource. Notably, countries such as the United States, South Korea, and France have made extensive use of nuclear power, generating 775 TWh, 172 TWh, and 319 TWh respectively. These numbers underscore the potential for nuclear energy as a substantial, low-carbon option for Indonesia.

History

Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Indonesia, changes have happened incrementally over the years. The 1980s saw a slight increase in hydropower with an additional 2 TWh added in 1986. The 90s also marked a period of growth for hydroelectricity, despite a small drop in 1997. The trend continued into the 21st century, with 2001 and 2007 witnessing more hydroelectric generation, culminating in an impressive 6.1 TWh in 2010. However, there were years of decline too, such as in 2002 and 2011. Yet, it was not until 2017 that other forms of low-carbon energy like geothermal and biofuels began to be harnessed, albeit in modest amounts. Productions of these energy sources saw some fluctuations, but more recent years show an encouraging, if slow, increase in Indonesia’s low-carbon electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources