Pertamina accelerates biofuel usage in Indonesia

Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned energy holding company, is increasing efforts to accelerate the energy transition in the transportation sector by developing biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and green hydrogen.
The move aims to cut carbon emissions while ensuring national energy security.
Pertamina senior vice-president Indira Pratyaksa said the transition must be taken seriously for Indonesia to stay resilient amid global change.
"Pertamina’s focus is not only on environmentally friendly energy, but also on reliable and affordable energy,” she said in a statement.
A recent SAF test flight was conducted by Pelita Air Service on August 20. The aircraft successfully completed a round trip from Jakarta to Bali using Pertamina’s eco-friendly fuel.
"The SAF we developed has undergone trials with international partners and proven to reduce emissions by up to 85 percent compared to conventional fuel," Pratyaksa added.
Norman Ginting, director of projects and operations at PT Pertamina New Renewable Energy (PNRE), said the transportation sector accounts for 36% of Indonesia’s energy use and about 73% of total fuel consumption.
"Indonesia has abundant renewable energy potential, but challenges remain. The transition requires collective action and close collaboration from all parties," Ginting said.