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| East Kalimantan accelerates waste-to-energy projects in Samarinda and Balikpapan, aiming to turn waste into electricity while supporting sustainable energy and the IKN region. |
East Kalimantan Speeds Up Waste-to-Energy Projects in Samarinda & Balikpapan
The East Kalimantan Provincial Government is stepping up efforts to develop waste-to-energy (PSEL) facilities across two major zones: Samarinda Raya and Balikpapan Raya.
This initiative is more than just planning. Head of the Environmental Agency (DLH) East Kalimantan, Joko Istanto, confirmed that the government is currently accelerating the preparation of cooperation agreements to ensure smooth project implementation.
“We are facilitating the drafting of cooperation agreements and joint commitments so that these projects can operate smoothly in the future,” Joko said in Samarinda on Saturday.
Follow-Up to National-Level Coordination
This acceleration follows a limited coordination meeting at the ministerial level, specifically focused on boosting waste management through renewable energy solutions.
To strengthen the framework, the provincial government recently held a virtual cross-regional coordination meeting involving multiple stakeholders—from provincial officials to city and district representatives.
Key participants included:
Samarinda City Environmental Agency
Kutai Kartanegara Environmental and Forestry Agency
This multi-regional collaboration is crucial given the wide service coverage of the project.
Two Major Service Zones: Samarinda Raya & Balikpapan Raya
The waste-to-energy development will be divided into two main zones:
1. Samarinda Raya
Coverage includes:
Samarinda City
Parts of Kutai Kartanegara Regency:
Anggana, Tenggarong Seberang, Loa Janan, Muara Badak, and Marang Kayu
2. Balikpapan Raya
Coverage includes:
Balikpapan City
The Nusantara Capital City (IKN)
Coastal areas of Kutai Kartanegara:
Samboja, Samboja Barat, and Muara Jawa
According to Joko, the geographic and administrative complexity requires stronger coordination.
“We need more intensive coordination between local governments, the IKN Authority, and the central government,” he explained.
Turning Waste Into Clean Energy
The project aims to tackle two major challenges at once:
Reducing waste accumulation
Generating electricity from renewable sources
In simple terms, waste that once posed environmental problems can now be transformed into a valuable energy resource.
Beyond that, the initiative is expected to strengthen energy resilience in East Kalimantan—especially with the ongoing development of Indonesia’s new capital city.
Target: Cleaner Environment & Sustainable Energy
The provincial government is optimistic that cross-regional collaboration will deliver:
Cleaner urban environments
Modern waste management systems
Alternative, eco-friendly electricity sources
If successful, this project could become a national model for sustainable waste management.
FAQ
1. What is PSEL?
PSEL is a waste processing facility that converts waste into electricity using technologies like incineration or gasification.
2. Why is this project important?
It addresses waste issues while producing renewable energy at the same time.
3. When will the project start?
It is currently in the preparation and agreement finalization stage.
4. Does the project involve the new capital (IKN)?
Yes, especially in the Balikpapan Raya zone which includes the IKN area.
5. What are the benefits for local communities?
Cleaner surroundings, additional electricity supply, and new economic opportunities in waste management.