Energy industry giant ABB has outlined its keenness to play a role in growing Indonesia’s geothermal industry.
In a news article posted on the group’s website on 26 May, 2025, Abhinav Harikumar, Vice President ABB Energy Industries, Southeast Asia, highlighted the country’s huge geothermal energy potential.
“Indonesia is harnessing its vast geothermal potential to drive a sustainable energy transition,” said Harikumar.
As one of the world’s leading geothermal-rich nations, the country is strategically integrating this clean energy into its national mix to bolster energy security, he added.
“Geothermal plays a central role in Indonesia’s National Energy Policy and is key to achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets, including net-zero emissions by 2060 and new pathways for economic growth and energy independence.”
ABB already has a strong track record in Indonesia’s geothermal sector through the Wayang Windu geothermal power plant operated by Star Energy.
In collaborations with companies like ABB, Star Energy retrofitted its cooling tower, with ABB upgrading the Distributed Control System (DCS) to boost capacity.
Another project within this plant involved the upgrade of Human Machine Interface (HMI) enhanced operational efficiency and safety of the plant’s operation.
Harikumar said such projects and collaborations were vital to underpinning the successful long-term growth of the sector.
“Realising geothermal energy’s potential requires clear strategies and industry collaboration,” he noted.
“Private sector collaboration is essential to advancing Indonesia's geothermal projects, with companies like ABB providing critical expertise in automation and electrification. These help to enhance efficiency and address challenges such as connectivity in remote areas.”
Given the high upfront investment for exploration and development, he also added that long-term partnerships will be crucial for scaling geothermal energy and ensuring projects become operational.
“As Indonesia pursues its 2060 net-zero target, maximising geothermal resources will be the key to its renewable energy transition – shaping a more resilient and sustainable energy future.”