Indonesia Plans Gradual Shift From Diesel Power to Solar to Strengthen Energy Security
Indonesia is preparing a gradual shift from diesel-fired power plants to solar generation as part of a broader effort to strengthen national energy security and expand the use of cleaner energy sources. According to the National Energy Council (DEN), the move aligns with international approaches that link energy resilience with renewable energy development. Details of the policy direction were outlined in recent reporting on the government’s plans to replace diesel plants with solar power, which emphasises the need for a phased transition that maintains stable electricity supply.
The government aims to develop up to 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity while gradually retiring diesel power plants, commonly known as PLTD. The initiative forms part of Indonesia’s wider energy transition strategy, which seeks to reduce dependence on imported fuels while expanding renewable resources that can be developed domestically.
Solar Expansion to Replace Diesel Generation
Dadan Kusdiana, Secretary-General of the National Energy Council, said the transition reflects a policy direction seen internationally: strengthening energy security while moving towards lower‑emission energy systems. He noted that many diesel power plants operate in remote areas where transporting fuel is both difficult and costly.
In these locations, locally available resources such as solar and geothermal energy could provide more reliable and sustainable alternatives. However, Kusdiana stressed that the conversion process must be carried out carefully and in parallel with the completion of renewable power projects to avoid disruptions to electricity supply.
Challenges in Remote and Frontier Regions
A significant proportion of Indonesia’s diesel plants serve underdeveloped, frontier and outermost regions. These areas often face logistical challenges that complicate both fuel delivery and infrastructure development. As a result, replacing diesel generation requires careful planning, investment in renewable infrastructure and coordination across national and regional authorities.
The initiative builds on the government’s earlier “de-dieselisation” programme, which promotes alternatives such as gas and solar energy. The programme aims to reduce the operational costs and environmental impact associated with diesel generation while improving long-term energy resilience.
Policy Coordination and Economic Considerations
President Prabowo Subianto has instructed ministries to accelerate the conversion of diesel power plants. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the effort also reflects concerns about rising global oil prices and the economic risks associated with fuel imports.
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that the transition will proceed in stages to ensure electricity supply remains stable during the shift. The government is therefore prioritising a balanced approach that expands renewable capacity while maintaining system reliability.
The energy transition is unfolding alongside broader efforts to modernise Indonesia’s economy and infrastructure. Wider initiatives in areas such as building resilience for emerging technologies and expanding digital connectivity and talent development illustrate how energy policy is increasingly linked with national development priorities.
By expanding renewable energy sources such as solar while reducing reliance on diesel generation, Indonesia aims to improve energy security, lower long-term operating costs and support its broader economic transformation.
