"We are targeting to complete the 70-kv SUTT on Flores Island this year, so that the PLN interconnection system's coverage there will be strengthened and expanded," Regional Business Director of East Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara PT PLN (Persero) Djoko Abumanan noted in the written statement received by ANTARA in Kupang, Tuesday.
Abumanan revealed that several districts comprising East Manggarai, Nagekeo, Ende, and Sikka to East Flores, the easternmost region of Flores Island, will be covered by the transmission network.
"If the 70-kv network were to be pulled in one line, then it would exceed from the west to east of Java Island," he noted while elucidating on the length of the transmission network to be constructed.
Abumanan explained that in the interim, a transmission network can be operated on the Ruteng track in Manggarai-Bajawa District, Ngada District, during the third quarter of 2019.
Djoko is upbeat that development will be completed in 2019, although his side continues to encounter significant challenges in the form of difficult topographic conditions, such as steep terrain and valleys.
Abumanan remarked that several villages on Flores Island are situated on hill slopes, so it takes longer to transport electrical materials, including poles, wire, transformers, and other accessories.
"Mobilization of materials is no easy task, as they have to be transported manually through mutual cooperation with several people," he noted.
He added that PLN had steadily endeavored to drive the development of the electricity network to increase the electrification ratio that presently reaches just 71 percent.
"Hence, we are optimistic that the regional government and community will lend their complete support, particularly concerning the matter of land acquisition for the network," he added.
EDITED BY INE
Translator: Eliswan Azly
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
