Langsa – Parulian Novriandi, S.T, M.Eng, the General Manager of PT. PLN (Persero) UID Aceh, delivered a public lecture on the topic “Conditions and Benefits of Electricity for Economic Growth in Aceh” to students at Universitas Samudra (UNSAM) in the UNSAM Multipurpose Hall on September 5, 2023.
The public lecture was inaugurated by UNSAM Chancellor Prof. Ir. Hamdani, M.T, IPM. In his address, the UNSAM Chancellor stressed the significance of using electricity in the process of learning and teaching.
“Consider, what if electricity were absent from our lives today, the world would perhaps be plunged into darkness, and we would not be able to conduct the teaching and learning process effectively. With electricity, we have the ability to accomplish numerous tasks today, making electricity a fundamental necessity in human life, following water.”
During this public lecture, the Chancellor provided an opportunity for the General Manager of PT. PLN (Persero) Aceh Region to share insights about innovations and recent developments in the field of electricity. This was done with the aim of expanding the knowledge and understanding of the students in attendance.
Currently, the electricity distribution system in Aceh begins with power generation in Medan. It is then transmitted through a network of power poles and subsequently distributed directly to both industrial and residential consumers from the main substation in Medan.
In addition, PLN is currently undergoing an energy transition process, moving away from its previous reliance on fossil fuels as an energy source, which generates significant carbon emissions, to the use of natural energy sources that do not produce carbon emissions. Aligned with President Joko Widodo’s directive, Indonesia aims to achieve Net Zero Emissions (NZE) by 2060 or possibly earlier.
From January 2023 until the present, PT. PLN (Persero) has installed New Renewable Energy (EBT) generators totaling 8,525 MW, representing 12.3% of the total existing generators. Aceh currently possesses an EBT generating capacity of 19.62 MW, with ongoing efforts to develop an additional EBT generating capacity of up to 188 MW.
PLN Aceh Region has undertaken several energy transition activities, including the inauguration of electric vehicle charging stations (SPKLU) in various PLN Aceh work area units, along with the installation of rooftop solar power plants (PLTS) at the Aceh Governor’s office and the Aceh ESDM Service.
In alignment with its mission, which aims to enhance the quality of people’s lives and drive economic activity, PLN is actively involved in the agricultural sector through the Electrifying Agriculture program. Through this initiative, PLN is prepared to support electrification in the agricultural sector to boost the national economy and improve the welfare of farmers.
In addition, the use of electric induction stoves for MSMEs is seen as a way to increase income while being environmentally friendly.
The utilization of red Calliandra trees has significant benefits in supporting both energy security and agriculture. Red Calliandra leaves are highly suitable for animal feed due to their very high protein content, making them ideal for feeding large livestock. Red Calliandra wood can be processed into wood pellets, serving as a renewable energy source with nearly the same quality as coal, boasting a heat content of up to 4880 kilo calories. Furthermore, after being cut, the Calliandra tree can rapidly grow new shoots, which can be harvested again within 6-7 months. (Unsam Humas)