Indonesia Plans Closure of Coal-Fired Plant to Combat Jakarta's Air Pollution

Indonesia is considering shutting down 2 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power capacity at the 4 GW Suralaya complex in Banten province to reduce air pollution in Jakarta. This move follows residents' complaints about toxic air from traffic, industrial smoke, and coal plants. PLN is planning to add newer capacity at Suralaya to power Java and Bali.

Indonesia is contemplating the shutdown of 2 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power capacity at the Suralaya complex near Jakarta, a senior minister stated on Wednesday. Coordinating Minister of Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Pandjaitan, explained that this initiative aims to alleviate air pollution in the capital city.

'Shutting down Suralaya is crucial for reducing air pollution in Jakarta,' declared Luhut. The government is actively working on the plan and will make an official announcement soon. PLN, the state utility, has not yet provided a comment.

The Suralaya power complex, operated by PLN, comprises eight units with the oldest dating back to the 1980s. While essential for supplying electricity to Jakarta, these plants significantly contribute to the city's alarming air pollution. In response, Jakarta residents have successfully sued the government, demanding action on pollution control. Alongside the potential shutdown, PLN is also increasing capacity at Suralaya through a joint venture, with new units expected to become operational by August.