Decarbonizing the electricity system in Sumatra region using nuclear and renewable energy based power generation

Abstract

The Indonesian national energy policy mandates that the new and renewable energy in 2025 reaches a share of 23% and in 2050 rises a share of 31% in the primary energy mix. The energy mix by types is further detailed in the national energy plan (RUEN). Since Indonesia is committed to participating in efforts to mitigate global climate change, the energy sector is expected to contribute to the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target of up to 29% (unconditional) and 41% (conditional) under Business as Usual (BAU) by 2030. The use of nuclear power and renewable energy-based power generations can reduce GHG emissions in the electricity sector. Sumatra region is a potential region for the development of renewable energy. In this study, various options were made to reduce GHG emissions by utilizing nuclear power and renewable energy-based power generations. Assuming that electricity planning in the Sumatra region, as stated in the Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL) from PLN as a Business as Usual (BaU) scenario, then an alternative scenario can be made by replacing coal power generation using low-carbon power generation. Hydropower, geothermal, and nuclear power generations are prospective options as they have large capacity per unit. At the same time, the utilization of other renewable energy sources still face some challenges due to the intermittent generation. The east coast regions of Sumatra that do not have the potential hydropower and geothermal sources, suit for nuclear power generation.