Chinese investor interested to build power plant in Aceh

A Chinese investor has expressed interest to build a 150 MW hydropower plant in Aceh Barat Daya regency.

An official of the firm, Jiang Suhong, has recently paid a visit to the regency?s office to express the firm?s interest in the power project. He was accompanied by a staff of the Indonesian Science Institute (LIPI) and legislator Rafli Kande, Aceh Barat Daya?s Regent Jufri Hasanuddin was quoted by news agency Antara.

The project, called PLTA Krueng Bate, is estimated to cost Rp 2.6 trillion to build, the regent said.

He did unveil the name of the Chinese firm, only saying the construction of the project will be carried out by PT Richland Power Investment Indonesia, using environmentally sound technology.

He said he would help the Chinese firm obtain all necessary permits to realize the project.

If realized, the power plant will much improve the security of power supply in Aceh. At present, Aceh?s demand for power peaks at 450 MW, according to the regent.

He also said Aceh Selatan regency wants to develop a hydropower plant, called PLTA Sungai Kluet, with a capacity of 300 MW. If both projects are realized, Aceh province will have a strong capacity to provide power for all its people. (*)