PLN East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is setting an ambitious goal to increase renewable energy generation to 198 MW by 2030, with a strong focus on geothermal power plants (PLTPs). PLN NTT is a division of Indonesia’s state-owned electric utility company, PT PLN (Persero). This unit is responsible for managing electricity generation, distribution, and infrastructure development in the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) region. East Nusa Tenggara is the southernmost province of Indonesia. It comprises the eastern portion of the Lesser Sunda Islands, facing the Indian Ocean in the south and the Flores Sea in the north

Taman Nasional Kelimutu, East Timor, Indonesia

At an event yesterday, PLN Electricity System Planning Manager I Wayan Adi Hari emphasized that achieving this target will require collaboration with international partners and advancements in supporting technologies.

Geothermal as the Primary Renewable Energy Source

NTT’s renewable energy mix was projected to reach 17.8% in 2023 and 23% in 2024, but current figures indicate that only 10% of the region’s total 470 MW power capacity comes from renewables.

Existing Renewable Energy in NTT (as of 2023): 50 solar power plants (PLTS) – 19.2 MW, 9 micro-hydro plants (PLTMH) – 6.77 MW, 3 geothermal power plants (PLTP) – 20.5 MW.

Given geothermal’s higher capacity output, PLN NTT plans to prioritize PLTP development to increase the renewable energy ratio. Flores, which once achieved a 26% renewable energy mix, serves as a key geothermal hub for the region.

Planned Geothermal Power Plants

To meet the 23% renewable energy target, PLN NTT is developing several new geothermal power plants, including:

Ulumbu PLTP – 20 MW

Sokoria PLTP – 25 MW

Mataloko PLTP – 20 MW

Atadei PLTP – 10 MW

However, permitting, community engagement, and infrastructure challenges remain obstacles to large-scale geothermal development.

Addressing Electrification Challenges in NTT

NTT’s electrification ratio has reached 96.37% as of January 2025, but four regions remain in the “red zone” with limited access to electricity: Sabu Raijua, South Central Timor, East Manggarai, Southwest Sumba. Additionally, 35 villages in East Sumba still lack electricity due to their remote locations and limited grid expansion.

A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Energy

With strong government and international support, PLN NTT aims to expand geothermal energy production, enhance rural electrification, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Geothermal development in Flores and surrounding areas could play a crucial role in achieving Indonesia’s renewable energy goals while providing sustainable power solutions for future generations.