Indonesia’s energy sector has received a major boost as PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) announced the largest oil and gas discovery since 2009. This finding is expected to significantly enhance the country’s energy reserves and long-term sustainability.

Record-Breaking Oil Discovery in 2024

PHE’s latest exploration efforts have resulted in a massive oil and gas discovery totaling 652 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMBOE). This marks a 34% increase compared to the previous year’s discovery of 488 MMBOE.

A significant portion of this new resource comes from the Tedong (TDG)-001 well, which recorded:

• 548 billion cubic feet of gas (BCFG)
• 13.51 million barrels of condensate (MMBC)

The well is located in Region IV Zone 13, operated by PT Pertamina EP Cepu, a subsidiary of PHE.

Strategic Exploration in Eastern Indonesia

The successful drilling of Tedong-001 is part of a broader exploration program covering five key areas, including:

• East Wolai (EWO)-001
• West Wolai (WWO)-001
• Julang Emas (JLE)-001
• Yaki Emas (YKE)-001

These drilling efforts focus on assessing the potential of Batugamping Formations Minahaki and Tomori, which are known for their rich hydrocarbon deposits.

Beyond the Tedong well, PHE also reported a discovery in Padang Pancuran (PPC)-1, South Sumatra, within the Jambi Merang Block. The well reached a depth of 3,750 feet (1,143 meters) and contains 140.6 MMBOE recoverable reserves.

Impact on Indonesia’s Energy Security

This discovery is a major milestone in Indonesia’s energy roadmap, as it will:

• Boost national oil and gas production
• Support energy independence efforts
• Create job opportunities and economic growth in local communities

According to Muharram Jaya Panguriseng, Director of Exploration at PHE, these findings are a result of extensive collaboration with SKK Migas and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). He also emphasized PHE’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring sustainable and responsible oil and gas exploration.

Additionally, PHE is implementing anti-corruption measures through ISO 37001:2016-certified Anti-Bribery Management System (SMAP), ensuring transparent and ethical business practices.

Conclusion

With 22 exploration wells drilled in 2024, along with extensive 2D and 3D seismic surveys, PHE is well-positioned to strengthen Indonesia’s energy security. The Tedong-001 and Padang Pancuran discoveries mark a new chapter for Pertamina’s upstream sector, contributing to the country’s goal of achieving long-term energy self-sufficiency.