Does Indonesia need battery storage?

Indonesia aims to convert 250MW of diesel-generated power to renewable energy this year and will need battery storage to do this successfully. Image: PLN. Indonesia’s state-owned utility and battery producer have launched a 5MW battery energy storage system (BESS) pilot project as it seeks to move away from diesel-generated power.

Why is battery energy storage system important in Indonesia?

However, given the challenge of Indonesia’s geological landscape, with many off-grid and remote areas, there is growing intermittency issue that hamper the development of solar and wind generation. Hence, the battery energy storage system (BESS) technologies have a critical role in the development of Indonesia’s renewable energy.

Why is there a growing demand for battery storage in Indonesia?

There is a growing demand for battery storage in Indonesia as the development of renewable energy plants, especially solar power plants and wind power plants, requires batteries to provide a stable and consistent electricity supply.

Does Indonesia have a grid-connected energy storage system?

There, the global system integrator Fluence recently turned on a 20MW/20MWh grid-connected BESS as part of a 1,000MW portfolio in development and construction for power company SMC Global Power. Indonesia’s current pipeline of energy storage projects is mostly pumped hydro, totalling 4,063MW according to IHS Markit.

Can Indonesia become a major battery producer in Southeast Asia?

Although there is room for improvement, Indonesia, with its robust economy, the largest BESS installation capacity in Southeast Asia, and plans to become a major battery producer, holds great potential for the BESS market's growth. Establishing a complete BESS value chain across Southeast Asia can be a catalyst for significant BESS market growth.

Will PLN build a battery in Indonesia?

The country’s state-owned utility PLN has signed a memorandum of understanding with another state-owned body, the Indonesia Battery Corporation (IBC), to build the BESS this year, PLN said.