“Flores indeed has abundant potential for new and renewable energy,” said Bobby Robson Sitorus, Licensing and Communication Manager of PLN’s Nusa Tenggara Main Development Unit (UIP), on Thursday.
He said several geothermal sites on the island have been officially designated by the ministry for development.
The seven working areas include Ulumbu, Wae Sano, Mataloko, Sokoria, Oka Ile Ange, Atadei, and Nage — all located across Flores Island and expected to strengthen the local electricity supply.
“The total geothermal potential across these sites reaches about 120 MW,” Bobby said, adding that PLN directly oversees two of them: Ulumbu, with an estimated 40 MW capacity, and Mataloko, with around 20 MW.
“So in total, there will be 60 megawatts directly supervised by PLN in Flores,” he added.
Related news: Energy Ministry seeks to tap geothermal potential of Flores
Bobby noted that geothermal working areas are currently located only in Flores, Alor, and Lembata, while Timor Island has yet to show viable geothermal potential.
Renewable energy, derived from natural and replenishable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal, is key to Indonesia’s clean energy transition. These sources produce far fewer carbon emissions than fossil fuels like coal and petroleum, while supporting sustainable economic growth.
Geothermal Working Areas (WKP) are officially designated zones where geothermal potential can be explored and utilized for electricity production.
With vast geothermal reserves spread across the archipelago, Indonesia ranks among the world’s top producers of geothermal energy. Flores Island, with its volcanic landscape, is viewed as one of the most promising regions for expanding clean and sustainable power generation.
Related news: EARTH WIRE -- WWF, Arun to develop geothermal energy in Flores
Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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