Govt to build diesel-fired power plants in border areas

The government plans to develop 47 diesel-fired power plants in the country?s borders areas so that the people there would no longer rely on supply from neighboring countries.

Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Indroyono Soesilo was quoted as saying Tuesday that the power plants were expected to be ready in August of next year when the country celebrates its 70 Independence Day.

Indroyono lamented the fact that some of the country?s population continue to rely on power supply from neighboring countries such as those in West Timor, which obtains supply from Timor Leste as the latter country enjoys surplus of power.

He acknowledged that there were a number of obstacles in developing power plant projects in the country including lengthy bureaucratic procedures. He promised to streamline the permitting process to help accelerate power sector development in the country. (*)