Gunung Ungaran Geothermal Project Faces Opposition as Central Java Lawmakers Seek Answers

A planned geothermal project on Mount Ungaran has drawn opposition from residents who fear it could damage the surrounding environment. Central Java lawmakers now say they will seek detailed answers from the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry.

“

I received a report that there was some opposition from residents.

Nur Saadah, chair of Commission D of the Central Java provincial legislature, said the ministry had assigned the geothermal concession in the Gunung Ungaran Geothermal Working Area to state electricity company PT PLN in March 2026.

She said the legislature had not formally received a complaint from residents, although reports of opposition had emerged recently. Commission D intends to follow up on those reactions by visiting the ministry in Jakarta on Sept. 8.

“

In the near future, we will visit the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry. We will ask for an explanation about the national strategic program on Mount Ungaran.

The lawmakers plan to ask about the project's benefits, implementation process and the issues residents consider dangerous. Nur said the information would then be relayed to the public.

“

Because this is in Central Java, we need to know. We represent the community and must convey what the community wants.

She acknowledged the government's effort to develop renewable energy, but said the process should include public outreach and education. Government officials working in the regions, she said, should help residents understand the project so tensions do not escalate.

“

The central government, through the bodies assigned to the regions, can provide understanding to the public so that tensions do not escalate.