NTT Earthquake: Swift Power Restoration Key to Economic Activity Recovery

Electricity networks in Indonesia's Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) region were restored with remarkable speed following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake on Saturday, August 15, 2026. This swift recovery is considered vital for accelerating the resumption of community activities and maintaining economic stability in the disaster-stricken areas.

M. Kholid Syeirazi, a member of the National Energy Council (DEN), reported that all substations affected by the quake in the Flores electrical system were back online in under 12 hours. The earthquake had disrupted the power system across the region.

By Sunday, August 16, 92% of distribution substations on the island of Flores had been repaired. Full restoration of power to all affected customers in Flores was achieved by Tuesday, August 18.

Syeirazi emphasized that electricity is a fundamental need, especially in the aftermath of a disaster. He noted that power availability supports hospitals, public service facilities, and disaster relief posts, enabling them to function. The rapid restoration in Flores highlights the importance of resilient energy infrastructure in disaster-prone areas, as prolonged disruptions to strategic infrastructure can severely impact public services and economic activities.