JAKARTA - The House of Representatives is asking the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to review the possibility of a nuclear power plant project being included in the 2019-2038 National Electricity General Plan.
According to House Commission VII Member from the National Democratic (Nasdem) Party Kurtubi, a nuclear power plant is an alternative energy source that needs to be considered due to its environmental friendliness. “However, there are still doubts because nuclear power plants are considered expensive,” said Mr Kurtubi as quoted by Kontan.co.id, Monday (15/7).
In addition, he added, other types of power plants have worse environmental impacts although they cost less compared to nuclear power plants. He also believes that as the time progresses nuclear power plants will cost less.
In response to the request, Energy Minister Ignasius Jonan said that a focus group discussion (FGD) is necessary because electricity in Indonesia is mainly supplied through steam power plants. “The costs of nuclear power plants are not competitive, especially because the government has to provide affordable electricity with limited subsidies,” said Mr Jonan. (MS)