Mamuju, West Sulawesi (ANTARA) - The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is surveying and updating data on West Sulawesi's renewable energy potential as part of national efforts to transition towards sustainable energy.

Head of West Sulawesi's Energy and Mineral Resources Office Mohammad Ali Chandra stated that as part of collaborative efforts between the central and regional government for the national pursuit, a ministry team has been sent to the province for the survey.

"The survey is vital (to provide data) as the basis for policymaking and push for renewable energy investment in West Sulawesi," Chandra stated in Mamuju, West Sulawesi on Thursday.

Moreover, this initiative creates opportunities for green investment, which can boost the electrification ratio and access to clean energy, thereby improving the local's welfare.

He explained that the province holds significant renewable energy potential, including 1,500 megawatts from hydropower, 1,677 megawatts from solar power, and 197.8 megawatts from biomass derived from palm oil waste.

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However, he noted that challenges persist, such as the lack of power plant development in the province by the central government and PLN, the state electricity company.

"Although some investors have conducted surveys and (shown interest) in investing, it is impeded by limited (development) allocation and the readiness of policy infrastructure," Chandra elaborated.

Nevertheless, with the ministry's issuance of the 2025-2034 Electricity Supply Initiative (RUPTL) in May 2025, the province now has the opportunity to generate 1,800 megawatts of power over the next decade through power plants that can be developed.

Chandra stated that the opportunity aligns with the province's vision of improving local welfare and must be supported by regional regulations such as spatial planning, electricity plans, environmental studies, and workforce capacity improvement.

He highlighted the provincial government's commitment to making the region a leading example of renewable energy development, as part of sustainable regional growth.

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