Indonesia's Ungaran geothermal project near temple site sparks no need for alarm, officials say

Central Java's provincial Energy and Mineral Resources office has moved to quell public unease regarding a newly issued geothermal energy permit for Mount Ungaran. The permit, granted by the national Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, allows for the exploration of geothermal resources across a vast 29,800-hectare area.

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If there are things that become questions in the community, of course they can be conveyed. Because with the permit that is currently owned, it doesn't automatically mean it can run right away, like drilling, that's not possible.

Concerns have surfaced that the exploration zone might encroach upon the Candi Gedong Songo, a protected cultural heritage site. However, Dwi Suryono, head of the New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation division at the provincial ESDM office, stated that the permit does not grant immediate access for activities like drilling. He emphasized that the permit holder, PT PLN (Persero), must undergo further licensing processes.

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So I hope the public doesn't trust news that doesn't come from the proper source. Don't be too worried.

These processes include public hearings where all stakeholders, including local communities and NGOs, will have the opportunity to voice their concerns and provide input. Suryono urged the public not to be overly anxious or believe unverified information, assuring that community involvement is a priority. The permit, issued in March 2026 and further processed in June 2026, covers areas in Semarang and Kendal regencies.

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The point is, we will involve the community regarding the planned activities that will be carried out.