Prabowo Plans 30-50 New Ethanol Plants for E20 Fuel Push

President Prabowo Subianto aims to bolster Indonesia's energy self-sufficiency by significantly expanding its ethanol production capabilities. He announced plans to construct between 30 and 50 new ethanol factories, a move intended to support the development of fuel with a 20 percent ethanol blend, known as E20.

During a joint harvest event in Malang, East Java, Prabowo expressed confidence in achieving the E20 target, citing India's success with E20 and Brazil's advanced E100 blend. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy to reduce reliance on imported fuels and enhance energy independence.

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Earlier, officials said we could reach E20. We need a factory. We only have one factory. I decided earlier that we would build at least 30 factories, and if necessary, up to 50.

This push for energy self-sufficiency is underscored by recent developments, including the inauguration of the Abadi Masela LNG Project after years of delay. Furthermore, Indonesia has become the first country to produce B50, a biofuel blend derived from palm oil and diesel, effectively ending diesel imports starting this July.

Prabowo urged national collaboration to achieve government targets, extending beyond energy to encompass food security, natural resources, and technological innovation. He also mentioned the upcoming launch of a national electric motorbike, expected to benefit communities, particularly farmers, by offering more efficient transportation.

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We now produce diesel fuel from palm oil. So, starting this July, we will no longer import diesel fuel from abroad.