State utility Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) plans to build a 71-megawatt gas engine power plant (PLTMG) in Belitung, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, with support from the local government, Babelnews.id reported on Wednesday.
The project, designated as part of Indonesia’s National Strategic Projects (PSN), is expected to be located near the Suge industrial area in Pegantungan village, Belitung regency.
Belitung Regent Djoni Alamsyah said discussions are underway on a potential land grant from the regency government to PLN, but regulatory hurdles have complicated the process.
“There are regulatory obstacles around land grants, but we continue to coordinate with PLN and are exploring relocating the project from its original coordinates,” Djoni said.
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He added that the current plan under consideration involves direct investment from PLN, with the local government facilitating land acquisition. PLN is expected to purchase land directly from local residents rather than receiving a government grant.
The project is seen as a potential catalyst for local economic development, including revitalization of the nearby port area and increased investment from energy and industrial firms such as Pertamina.
The plant is estimated to require around 11 hectares of land, though this could change depending on conditions on the ground.
“We fully support this project and will help ensure its smooth implementation. If we miss this opportunity, it may be difficult to get another,” Djoni said.
Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak
