Indonesia Plans 4.3 GW Nuclear Power Plants Amid Energy Transition

Indonesia is making a significant shift toward cleaner energy by planning to build nuclear power plants with a total capacity of approximately 4.3 gigawatts (GW). This initiative, spearheaded by President Prabowo Subianto's administration, aims to address the country's heavy reliance on coal, which currently accounts for over half of its energy production. Hashim Djojohadikusumo, an adviser to the president, emphasized that this move is a response to climate change challenges and stated that the government will not close all coal plants by 2040 but will halt the construction of new ones. The proposal includes the establishment of floating small modular reactors, although concerns remain regarding safety due to Indonesia's seismic activity. Critics also highlight the long-term issues associated with nuclear waste management and the environmental impacts of deforestation in the country. Despite these challenges, the government is pushing forward with ambitious plans to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.