Indonesia Tests Compressed Natural Gas Cylinders to Replace LPG

Indonesia is moving forward with trials for its Red-and-White CNG program, which aims to replace subsidized liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders with compressed natural gas (CNG) alternatives. The cafeteria at the Center for Oil and Gas Testing (Lemigas) in Cipulir, South Jakarta, is currently serving as a testing site for CNG cylinders, with half of its 10 food stalls already closed as the transition begins.

Vendors at the Lemigas cafeteria, like Rifai, who has sold Madurese specialties since the 1980s, stated they had not yet received official information about the CNG plan. They continue to use the subsidized 3-kilogram LPG cylinders and are waiting for clear announcements. "If it makes things easier, we'll support it," Rifai commented, indicating a potential willingness to adapt to the new system if it proves advantageous.

CNG is primarily methane compressed to high pressures (200-250 bar), distinguishing it from LPG, which consists of propane and butane stored at much lower pressures (5-8 bar). The Lemigas trials represent the third stage in the government's development of this program.

Recent related news indicates a broader government effort to manage energy resources and costs. This includes presenting adsorbed natural gas (ANG) technology as an LPG alternative, eliminating import duties on aircraft parts and industrial LPG, and collaborating with Pindad to produce 3-kg CNG cylinders. Pertamina has also adjusted prices for non-subsidized LPG, and the government is implementing inflation control measures, including reducing import duties on LPG and plastic raw materials.

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If it makes things easier, we'll support it.