Indonesia is taking bold steps toward cleaner energy with its plans for nuclear power. President Prabowo Subianto’s government aims to build nuclear plants with a capacity of about 4.3 gigawatts (GW). This initiative is part of a larger goal to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, especially coal, which currently provides over half of the country’s electricity. Only a small fraction, less than 15%, comes from renewable sources. It’s a big shift, especially since Indonesia hasn’t turned to nuclear energy before, and the plan raises concerns in areas known for earthquakes.
During a sustainability forum, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Prabowo’s brother and adviser, emphasized that this move is a response to the growing climate crisis. While nuclear power could help decrease carbon emissions, it brings challenges, particularly in managing toxic waste. Critics also highlight the environmental impact of coal, which is still a major energy source in Indonesia. Djojohadikusumo expressed skepticism about the G7’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, which allocated $20 billion to assist Indonesia in reducing emissions, calling it a “failed program.”
Meanwhile, Indonesia is dealing with a serious deforestation problem. According to the environmental NGO Auriga Nusantara, deforestation rose for the third year in a row, with over 261,575 hectares (646,366 acres) of forest lost last year alone. This crisis is fueled by the expansion of timber plantations, palm oil production, and increased mining activities. Timer Manurung, the chair of Auriga Nusantara, voiced his concern, noting the worrying increase in legal deforestation and urging immediate action to protect the forests, especially as the country builds its new capital.
Ade Tri Ajikusumah from the environment ministry acknowledged these criticisms but highlighted the government’s plans to maximize land use. He mentioned efforts are underway to replant trees in areas slated for development. However, much of the deforestation is happening in regions approved for development, particularly the new capital on Kalimantan island. Regional governments’ proposals to open hundreds of thousands of hectares for development have alarmed environmentalists, putting Indonesia’s rich biodiversity at risk.
Environmental groups are pressuring President Prabowo to introduce stricter regulations to curb deforestation. Manurung urged for the protection of remaining natural forests, reflecting the urgent need for action amid mounting ecological concerns.
While the government promotes food and energy self-sufficiency, experts warn that these initiatives might have severe consequences for delicate forest ecosystems. Nearly every region in Indonesia faces deforestation, with notable losses in biodiversity hotspots like Raja Ampat. Here, illegal nickel mining and agricultural expansion threaten fragile environments, including vital coral reefs.
Additionally, biomass energy production’s reliance on wood raises further worries among conservationists. The push for domestic biomass energy has led to clearing forests for quick-growing species, posing questions about sustainability and long-term ecological health.
Indonesia’s ambitious clean energy plans stand in stark contrast to its alarming deforestation rates. There’s an urgent need for collaboration between government and environmental advocates to find solutions that balance energy demands with preserving natural habitats. As climate change intensifies, protecting Indonesia’s unique biodiversity becomes more critical than ever.
