In a bid to advance sustainable agricultural practices and support local communities, Pertamina Group has rolled out the Desa Energi Berdikari (DEB) program in Tanjung Palas Village, East Dumai District. This initiative involves the installation of solar power plants (PLTS) to support hydroponic farming and address energy challenges faced by local agricultural groups.
Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, has gained popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for its potential to generate additional income and optimize limited space. The Sehati Group, a community organization in Dumai City, has been successfully cultivating lettuce and mustard greens using hydroponics. The group, which operates from its “Green House,” produces tens of kilograms of vegetables monthly, contributing about IDR 1,000,000 to the local economy.
Since November 2022, the Sehati Group has benefited from PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional (KPI) – Dumai Unit’s support in hydroponic cultivation. However, the cost of electricity for these operations posed a significant challenge. To mitigate this issue, Pertamina NRE and PT KPI Dumai Unit have introduced a 2.2 kWp off-grid solar power plant and a 5 kWh battery storage system. The formal handover took place at the Tanjung Palas Village Office Hall on September 7.
This development is part of Pertamina Group’s broader efforts to promote renewable energy in underserved villages across Indonesia. Previous projects under the DEB program have been implemented in regions such as Lampung, Bali, Aceh, and more.
Dicky Septriadi, Corporate Secretary of Pertamina NRE, highlighted the company’s commitment to renewable energy and community involvement. “We are proud of this collaboration and aim to expand our support for renewable energy projects and public education on energy transition,” he stated.
Agustiawan, Area Manager of Communication, Relations, & CSR at PT KPI Dumai Unit, emphasized Pertamina’s dedication to providing renewable energy solutions as an alternative to fossil fuels. “We are working to build three additional PLTS units across Dumai City through our CSR development program,” Agustiawan said.
Zainur, the East Dumai District Head, praised the assistance from Pertamina and its impact on local hydroponic activists. “The support and socialization provided are expected to enhance knowledge and foster better use of clean energy in our district,” Zainur commented.
Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communication at PT Pertamina (Persero), reiterated the company’s commitment to energy transition and environmental stewardship. “Our support for renewable energy and decarbonization aligns with our goal of achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2060 and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, especially combating climate change,” Santoso concluded.
Pertamina’s initiatives in renewable energy and decarbonization reflect its ongoing efforts to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
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