In 2024, PT PLN (Persero), Indonesia's state-owned electricity company, achieved a significant milestone with its "Electrifying Agriculture" (EA) program, designed to modernize the nation's agricultural sector by transitioning from traditional diesel-powered machinery to electric alternatives. The program recorded a total of 300,535 customers, marking an increase of 53,539 from the 246,996 customers in 2023.
PLN's President Director, Darmawan Prasodjo, emphasized that the EA program aims to drive the modernization of Indonesia's agriculture by adopting modern, electricity-based farming technologies. He stated, "Through this program, we are trying to initiate a 'Creating Shared Value' (CSV) for locals and the surrounding environment. We believe with various usage of electricity-based agricultural technology innovation can drive business actors to be more advanced and it will help increase their productivity significantly rather than using fossil energy."
Throughout 2024, the EA program achieved a total connected power of 4,203.36 Mega Volt Amperes (MVA), with electricity consumption reaching 6.17 Terawatt Hours (TWh). This led to a 10.15% growth in electricity sales and a 9.35% increase in revenue year-on-year.
The EA program has had a tangible impact on farmers across Indonesia. For instance, the D’Shafa Farming Women’s Group (KWT) in East Jakarta experienced a 60% increase in harvest yields after implementing smart farming methods powered by electricity, with their monthly turnover rising from approximately USD 5,149 to USD 8,045. Similarly, UD 2 Putri, a rice milling business in Demak, Central Java, doubled its production capacity from 5 tons to 10 tons per day after switching from diesel to electric-based milling machines, reducing operational costs by 15%.
The EA program aligns with PLN's broader commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By promoting the use of electricity in agriculture, the program reduces reliance on fossil fuels, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a cleaner environment. In recognition of these efforts, PLN received several accolades in 2023, including the Main Green Leadership at the PROPER Environmental Award and Regional Environmental Management Performance 2023 by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK).
Looking ahead, PLN remains dedicated to ensuring affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy access for all. The company also aims to contribute to Indonesia's welfare by creating job opportunities and ensuring food security with nutritious provisions, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's vision.
Read More