Hybrid System Solution for Off-Grid and Rural Energy Access in Indonesia

Abstract

Based on a recent study in 2016, there are still 12.659 underdeveloped villages or 16% of the total number of villages in Indonesia are still lacking in electric power from PT PLN (persero). To fulfill the electricity target in these villages, the government has issued the Program Indonesia Terang (PIT/Electrification Program). This program consists of efforts to extend the grid (for villages where PT PLN is present), install mini grid/off grid/hybrid systems, and implement solar home systems. It is hoped that this program will contribute to the penetration of renewable energy into the national energy mix to reach 25% in 2025. Regulation No. 38/2016 published by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) titled ACCELERATION of ELECTRIFICATION IN UNDERDEVELOPED, SOLITARY, BORDER RURAL AREAS, AND INHABITED SMALL ISLAND THROUGH the BUSINESS OF PROVIDING A SMALL-SCALE POWER, outlines how to structure rural electrification projects.
In order to support these programs, an off-grid hybrid power system is a viable option, depending on the available resource at the project location. Whether a mix of one or more renewables with one or more non-renewable generators, a hybrid system is considered when it can achieve a higher cost-benefit compared with just using one generation independently. Existing hybrid power systems in Indonesia, including the Baron Technopark_Gunung Kidul Regency and Pantai Baru_ Bantul Regency are good examples of how an off-grid hybrid power plant can be constructed. Overall, this paper will assess the current trends in hybrid and off-grid electricity generation and determine why an off-grid hybrid system could be a better option compared to a single generation method.