RI develops pyrolysis tech to back waste-to-energy plants

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, announced that the government is actively promoting the use of pyrolysis technology to support waste-to-energy (WtE) plants in addressing the nation's growing waste management challenges. Speaking in Jakarta on Sunday, Hasan emphasized that while WtE plants are being rapidly expanded, set to include 13 facilities nationwide, including one in Palembang expected to start operations in October 2026, their current capacity is insufficient to manage all waste generated. He stated that these plants are projected to handle approximately 22 percent of the country's total waste output, highlighting the urgent need for supplementary technologies such as pyrolysis. Pyrolysis technology, which converts waste materials into usable energy, is being promoted as a viable solution to tackle the remaining portion of the waste problem. According to Hasan, the government is working in partnership with the Indonesian Army and local authorities to develop and implement this technology. Pilot projects are already underway in five regions, including Bogor City, Bogor District, Semarang City, Bekasi City, and Jakarta. These efforts aim to transform waste stored in landfills into renewable fuels comparable to diesel, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy independence. The push for pyrolysis aligns with Indonesia's broader strategy to alleviate pressure on landfills and promote sustainable resource utilization. Hasan highlighted that the initiative seeks not only to resolve environmental concerns but also to deliver tangible economic and energy benefits to communities. By fostering collaboration among different stakeholders, the government hopes to accelerate the pace of waste management improvements and ensure that the nation meets its sustainability goals. In parallel, the United Arab Emirates is exploring opportunities to deepen its engagement with Indonesia through the development of the Bulango Ulu Dam in Gorontalo province. During a recent visit to the construction site in Bone Bolango District, UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem Aldhaheri, expressed confidence in the potential of the project. He noted that the dam, with a storage capacity of nearly 93.5 million cubic meters and an inundation area spanning 549 hectares, could serve multiple purposes beyond basic water supply and irrigation. Aldhaheri mentioned that the UAE is considering involving its domestic companies, particularly the state-owned renewable energy firm Masdar, to enhance the dam's functionality and expand its role in clean energy production. Once completed in 2026, the Bulango Ulu Dam is expected to provide raw water for approximately 880,000 residents, support the irrigation of 5,000 hectares of rice fields, and generate up to 80 megawatts of electricity. This multifaceted approach is designed to stimulate regional economic growth by improving water security, boosting agricultural output, and creating conditions conducive to local tourism initiatives. The UAE's interest in contributing to the project reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting Indonesia's energy transition and sustainable development objectives. Both developments underscore the increasing focus on innovative solutions to environmental and infrastructural challenges. While Indonesia continues to advance its waste management strategies through pyrolysis and other emerging technologies, international partnerships such as the UAE's potential involvement in the Bulango Ulu Dam illustrate the global momentum toward sustainable development. As these projects move forward, they are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of resource management and energy production in the region.