PALMOILMAGAZINE, SANGATTA — East Kutai Regency (Kutim) is taking an innovative step to address the dual challenges of energy scarcity and climate change. In a program held on Tuesday (6 June 2025) titled Utilizing Palm Oil Waste for Renewable Energy, the local government is promoting the transformation of palm oil mill effluent (POME) into clean biogas-based energy.
Initiated by the Natural Resources Division (SDA) of the Kutim Regency Secretariat, the event brought together key stakeholders including PLN (State Electricity Company), students, university representatives, and environmental activists. Amid growing greenhouse gas emissions and extreme weather, this initiative is seen as a practical local solution to a global crisis.
Arif Nur Wahyuni, Head of the SDA Division, highlighted that 22 out of 141 villages in Kutim remain without electricity. Through a collaborative scheme between PLN and palm oil companies, liquid palm oil waste will be processed into biogas for power generation.
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“Previously seen as a pollutant, this waste now holds great potential as an energy source. With nearly one million hectares of palm plantations, Kutim has a major opportunity here,” Arif stated.
Beyond powering remote villages, this waste-to-energy approach also helps reduce methane emissions—a potent greenhouse gas generated by decaying organic waste. Using biodigester technology, methane can be captured and converted into fuel, aligning with Government Regulation No. 79 of 2014 and Minister of Energy Regulation No. 10 of 2025.
The use of palm oil biogas also offers economic benefits for industry players by lowering internal electricity costs and reducing fuel expenses.
However, implementation remains a challenge. Joko Pratomo, Biogas and Power Plant Manager at PT PMM in Sangkulirang, pointed out that while the volume of waste is large, not all factories have the required technology or skilled human resources. Initial investment costs are also significant.
Another issue is energy distribution. Joko noted that selling biogas-generated electricity to PLN requires adequate infrastructure and a supporting tariff regulation. Unfortunately, many palm oil mills are not yet connected to the PLN grid.
In addition, the post-fermentation process produces sludge that must be managed properly. Though it can be used as fertilizer or compost, processing it demands lab testing and adherence to technical standards.
Despite these hurdles, Joko sees strong potential in the initiative. “With a systematic approach, Kutim could lead the way in environmentally friendly palm oil practices. Waste can be transformed into electricity, fuel, fertilizer, and even treated water,” he said.
This initiative also aligns with the global shift toward circular economy principles and sustainable industry practices. By turning waste into energy, Kutim not only addresses rural electrification but also contributes to a greener energy future for Indonesia.
The program reflects Kutim’s firm commitment to progressive energy and environmental solutions—proving that waste can be a valuable resource, not a burden. (P2)
