DNV, a renowned independent energy expert, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT PLN Engineering (PLNE), a subsidiary of Indonesia’s state-owned power distribution company PT PLN (Persero), signaling a strategic collaboration aimed at bolstering disaster recovery control systems within Indonesia’s power infrastructure.
The two-year MoU, recently signed in Jakarta, outlines a cooperative effort in Scada/EMS design, crucial for ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of smart power grids and microgrids, vital components in Indonesia’s journey towards energy decarbonization.
Despite Indonesia’s status as a major coal exporter in Southeast Asia, the nation has committed to phasing out coal by 2055 and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. However, according to DNV’s Energy Transition Outlook 2023, the country has faced challenges garnering support for its phase-out initiatives.
As Indonesia integrates renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal into its grids, the complexity of managing grid stability increases. The proliferation of distributed generation and sensor networks necessitates robust Scada/EMS systems to effectively manage the influx of data and maintain balanced power flows throughout the generation, transmission, and distribution chain.
The MoU underscores the mutual commitment of both parties to explore collaboration opportunities, including the joint utilization of resources, marketing initiatives, and business development. Additionally, the agreement aims to enhance the capabilities of PLN-E’s employees through workshops and training programs, both locally and internationally.
Brice Le Gallo, Vice President and Regional Director APAC, Energy Systems at DNV, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting DNV’s vast experience in technical advisory work for power grid systems. He emphasized PLN-E’s vision to become a technology and engineering leader, stating, “Innovation and partnering with other technology leaders like DNV is part of PLN-E’s transformation strategy to achieve that vision.”
Le Gallo emphasized the importance of investing in power grids alongside renewable energy developments, asserting that collaboration is crucial for maximizing the potential of smart grids in decarbonizing energy systems.
The partnership between DNV and PT PLN Engineering underscores a significant step forward in Indonesia’s efforts to modernize its power infrastructure and align with global clean energy objectives.
