As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, Indonesia has set its sights on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Solar power, a clean and abundant energy source, has been identified as a key solution to meet this goal. However, the intermittency of solar poses a challenge to grid stability and energy storage is a well-known and effective strategy for managing variable renewable energy. Pumped hydro storage (PHS) could be the key to unlocking Indonesia’s renewable energy potential. PHS is a proven technology that stores excess energy generated by renewable sources during off-peak hours, releasing it during peak hours when needed. This flexible and reliable energy storage solution can help stabilize the grid, enabling the integration of more renewable energy sources.
Indonesia, with its vast geographical area and rugged terrain, has a unique opportunity to develop PHS systems that can store large amounts of energy. The country’s hydroelectric potential is significant, with many rivers and waterways that could be harnessed for PHS. According to a study by Andrew Blaker’s and his team at the Australian National University, Indonesia has an estimated 26,000 potential sites suited pumped hydro storage capacity, which is more than required for Indonesia’s current power generation requirements [Indonesia’s Pumped Hydro Potential] See the ANU 100% Renewable energy groups interactive alas highlighting the thousands of potential PHS sites in Indonesia.
The World Bank has also recognised the potential for pumped hydro storage in Indonesia notes that the country’s first pumped storage hydropower plant is expected to support the country’s energy transition and decarbonisation goals. There is currently a process in place to review the potential for PHS on the Bali – Java grid. The review highlights the potential of PHS to address the intermittency of renewable energy sources and ensure a reliable supply of electricity. Pumped hydro storage offers a promising solution to Indonesia’s growing energy needs.
The benefits of PHS for Indonesia are numerous. Pumped hydro storage offers a promising solution to Indonesia’s growing energy needs. By harnessing the country’s hydroelectric potential, PHS can enable the integration of more renewable energy sources, stabilize the grid, and ensure a reliable supply of electricity. With its vast geographical area and rugged terrain, Indonesia has a unique opportunity to develop PHS systems that can store large amounts of energy. As the country continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, PHS is poised to play a key role in unlocking Indonesia’s renewable energy potential.
