Coal shortage triggers Java power outages, PLN works to secure supply
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- PT PLN (Persero) identifies a medium-calorie coal supply crisis as the primary cause of recent power outages in Java.
- This shortage impacts the reliability of steam power plants, which are crucial for Java's electricity supply.
- PLN is accelerating contract processes with government-assigned coal suppliers to ensure a steady flow of energy to power plants.
PT PLN (Persero) has identified a crisis in the supply of medium-calorie coal as the main factor behind recent power disruptions across Java. This shortage critically affects the operational capacity of steam power plants, which form the backbone of the island's electricity generation.
Darmawan Prasodjo, CEO of PLN, stated that the consistent supply of medium-calorie coal is essential for the reliability of these power plants. The current supply constraints have directly impacted PLN's ability to maintain a stable electricity system for Java.
To address the situation, PLN is expediting contract finalization with coal suppliers who have received government assignments. This move aims to ensure that the necessary primary energy sources are promptly delivered to the power plants. PLN also expressed gratitude to the suppliers who have secured contracts and are facilitating the delivery of coal.
PLN is engaged in intensive coordination with the Directorate General of Mineral and Coal to streamline administrative processes and expedite the distribution of coal to various power generation facilities. "We are coordinating intensively and continuously with the Directorate General of Mineral and Coal team to ensure the contract signing process proceeds quickly," Prasodjo added.
As a result of these accelerated efforts, medium-calorie coal is now beginning to flow to several steam power plants on Java. This includes facilities operated by PLN as well as those managed by Independent Power Producers (IPPs). PLN hopes that this influx of coal will hasten the recovery of Java's electricity system and is continuing its improvement measures to guarantee a reliable power supply for the public.
We are coordinating intensively and continuously with the Directorate General of Mineral and Coal team to ensure the contract signing process proceeds quickly.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.