PLN operates new subsea cables linking Java and Bali
Friday, August 22 2014 - 11:08 AM WIB
The two cables, called SKLT Circuit 3 and Circuit 4, have been operating since June this year.
Including the two new cables, PLN now has four transmission cables linking Java and Bali. They now transmit a total of 300 MW of power, but are capble of transmitting up to 350 MW.
Aside from adding power supplies to Bali, the operation of the two new cables will enable PLN to improve efficiency. The power supplies will enable PLN to cut the consumption of oil fuels for power generation in Bali from 84,000 kiloliters per month to 53,000 kiloliters per month, which translates into a cost saving of Rp 270 billion per month. Once all the cables operate at full capacity of 350 MW, the cost saving will increase to Rp 400 billion per month.
With SKLT 3 and SKLT 4 having come into operation, PLN will soon stop the operation of the 125-MW PLTD Pemaron diesel power plant which PLN has leased to support power supplies on the tourist island.
As of July 2014, peak load in Bali stood at 734 MW and it is projected to increase to 780 MW by the end of this year. The island now gets 300 MW of power supply from Java and the supply willl be increased to 350 MW. Once it has happened, Bali will get 40 percent of its power from Java. The rest comes from PLTG Gilimanuk gas turbine power plant, PLTG/PLTD Pesanggaran and several other diesel power plants. Power load in Bali rises 8 percent a year.
Editing by Johannes Simbolon