PLN claims to get extra power supply from Inalum

President Director of state-owned electricity company PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), Nur Pamudji, claimed that the utility has obtained additional power supply commitment from state-owned North Sumatra-based aluminum producer PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (Inalum).

Nur was quoted by Koran Tempo as saying Saturday that the additional commitment will increase the power supply from Inalum to PLN to 300 MW from 210 MW, which should help resolve the power crisis in North Sumatra.

He said that the power supply from Inalum will be used to meet new demand from industries and households, estimated at 500 MW.

Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Rini S. Soemarno, during a recent visit to Inalum, expressed concern that the company?s production activity would be affected by the power supply arrangement with PLN.

Inalum?s workers union has also echoed the same concern, protesting the supply of the company?s power to PLN. The union argues that Inalum?s hydro power plant can only enjoy power surplus when the water level at the Danau Toba Lake is high. But during dry season, when the water level drops, Inalum actuall suffers deficit of power.

Meanwhile, Director General of Electricity Jarman said that the Pangkalan Susu coal-fired power plant has started operation this month, which will eventually resolve the power crisis problem in North Sumatra. (*)