Harita Nickel Promotes Sustainable Mining Operations with Construction of 300 MWp Solar Power Plant

09 April 2023

Harita Nickel is promoting the implementation of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in its mining business to ensure sustainability. The company operates in Obi Island, South Halmahera, North Maluku Province and aims to complete the development of a 300 Megawatt peak (MWp) Solar Power Plant (PLTS) by 2025.

Tonny H Gultom, the Director of Health, Safety and Environment at Harita Nickel (PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk), stated that the company plans to reduce coal consumption at the smelting facility by installing solar panels on the ground and rooftops to generate 300 MWp by 2025. This step aligns with the government's directive to gradually stop the operation of coal-fired power plants until 2060, supporting Indonesia's plan to achieve net-zero emissions.

However, the company faces challenges, as reducing emissions requires significant effort. The company is discussing with the government to overcome these challenges. The use of renewable energy sources is still hindered by technology and high costs, according to Tonny.

Currently, Harita Nickel uses coal-fired power plants to support its business operations in both mining and downstream sectors. Obi Island is a suitable location for developing new renewable energy sources (EBT) through the development of PLTS.

The company will design a roadmap for the development of this PLTS, with the aim of having some of them operational by early 2024. While developing these plans, the company is also exploring other potential renewable energy sources to support its long-term energy transition plan.

Harita Nickel is committed to promoting low-carbon and environmentally friendly operations in the industrial area of Obi Island. The company also aspires to support its affiliated entity, PT Dharma Cipta Mulia (DCM), in building a sustainable industrial area. To increase the use of renewable energy in the company's operations, Harita Nickel utilizes solar energy for lighting on the company's project sites to reduce its emissions.

Source: KataData.co.id