Star Energy told to move geothermal pipeline

The Geology Agency at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has advised PT Star Energy, the operator of Wayang Windu geothermal power plant in Pengalengan, West Java, to move its geothermal pipeline to a safer location following this week?s landslide incident, Koran Tempo reported on Saturday.

The paper quoted agency senior official Gede Suantika as saying that if Star Energy decides to maintain the pipeline at the current location, as relocating the pipeline admittedly is quite difficult, the company must check out for the condition of the slopes in the area following the landslide incident. If necessary, the slopes affected by the landslide must also be strengthened.

He added that the agency has recommended other geothermal producers to make similar inspection to avoid the reoccurrence of fatalities in the future.

The paper said that Star Energy Vice President for External Relations Saleh Amru said previously that there is possibility in the future for the company to relocate the pipeline.

A landslide occurred on Tuesday in the area, hitting pipelines, used to channel steam to the Wayang Windu geothermal power plant, and causing explosion.

The landslide was caused by continued heavy rainfalls hitting agricultural lands in the area.

Star Energy operates two geothermal power units there, one with the capacity of 110 MW and the other with 117 MW. (*)