PT PLN is supporting mineral downstream by supplying an additional 60 Megavolt Ampere (MVA) of power for PT Freeport Indonesia's copper smelter in Gresik Special Economic Zone (SEZ), East Java. PLN has also supplied the first phase of 30 MVA power in September 2023.
PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo said that PLN fully supports the government's efforts to encourage the downstream of the mineral industry through the provision of reliable electricity at competitive prices. Downstream, he said, is a strategic step to increase the value of mineral commodities and boost national economic growth.
"PLN realizes that the presence of electricity is an important factor for industrial activities. Moreover, downstream of the mineral industry requires electricity with large and reliable power," Darmawan said in an official statement on Thursday (9/2).
Darmawan added that his team is ready to meet the electricity needs of the mineral industry sector, which continues to increase every year. This is consistent with PLN's mission, not only to serve the community's needs but also to support the growth of the domestic industry.
"The availability of electrical energy is crucial in various business and industrial sectors. PLN is committed to meeting electricity needs with a high level of reliability. This is done by providing the best service to all customers, including the smelter industry sector," he added.
General Manager of PLN East Java Distribution Unit (UID), Agus Kuswardoyo, explained that the electricity supply for PT Freeport Indonesia in East Java SEZ will take place in four stages. Phase I is 30 MVA, Phase II is 60 MVA, Phase III is 110 MVA, and Phase IV is 170 MVA.
"PLN will continue to accelerate the addition of phase III and IV supplies by 2024," Agus said.
PLN hopes that with sufficient electricity supply, PT Freeport Indonesia's smelter production can support other downstream industries such as cable factories, electric cars, and others.
"PLN wants to support PT Freeport Indonesia's smelter project in Gresik Regency, one of the National Strategic Projects in improving the country's economy," Agus concluded.
Image source: Jawa Pos / Doc. PLN
