By: Muhammad Reza Wibisono*)
Indonesia is currently at an important momentum to achieve energy independence through the utilization of renewable resources, especially solar energy. This transition aims not only to reduce dependence on fossil fuels but also to open significant opportunities for green economic growth. With abundant sunlight potential, Indonesia has a strategic asset to make solar energy the main pillar of energy self-sufficiency as well as a means to create new jobs.
Director of New and Renewable Energy at the Directorate General of EBTKE, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Andriyah Feby Misna, stated that as of the first semester of 2025, rooftop solar power utilization has reached 495 megawatt peak (MWp) from around 10,700 PLN customers. According to her, there is still a pipeline of rooftop solar power system (PLTS) proposals pending realization, so the opportunity to reach the 1-gigawatt target by the end of 2025 remains wide open. She emphasized that public and business enthusiasm is quite high, but support through regulations, fiscal incentives, and inclusive financing is needed to optimize the development of solar energy.
Andriyah added that the government continues to refine policies to accelerate the realization of solar energy. The measures taken include simplifying regulations, providing incentives, and offering more affordable financing schemes. These efforts are expected to broaden community participation, from households and MSMEs to large industrial sectors.
Special Advisor to the President for Energy, Prof. Purnomo Yusgiantoro, noted that Indonesia’s renewable energy potential reaches 3,600 gigawatts (GW), with about 1,700 GW coming from solar power. According to him, solar energy is the backbone in the effort to achieve net zero emissions while strengthening national energy resilience. He stressed that the utilization of clean energy is not just rhetoric but a strategic agenda capable of reducing energy import dependence and strengthening Indonesia’s position in the global energy arena.
Purnomo also emphasized that successful energy transition requires consistent policies and cross-sector synergy. Collaboration among the government, private sector, academics, and society is crucial to ensure sustainable solar energy development. According to him, regulatory stability is a primary requirement for Indonesia to become a green energy hub in Southeast Asia.
Director of Strategy and Governance for Downstream Industry at the Ministry of Investment/BKPM, Ahmad Faisal Suralaga, stated that investment opportunities in the solar energy sector remain very broad. Among all renewable energy potentials, solar power is the largest and most promising component for rapid development. With regulatory support and investor involvement, the construction of solar power infrastructure can be accelerated—not only for electricity supply but also as a driver of new job creation in various regions.
Ahmad also stressed that investment in solar energy brings significant multiplier effects. The impacts include the growth of supporting industries, increased human resource capacity, and the development of new areas as green energy-based economic centers. He emphasized that this momentum must be leveraged so that Indonesia not only becomes a consumer but also a producer and key player in the global clean energy value chain.
The positive impact of the solar energy transition on job creation is now becoming evident. From solar panel manufacturing, logistics supply chains, installation, to maintenance services, the demand for labor continues to rise. This aligns with the government’s vision to build a green economy ecosystem based on clean energy that is environmentally friendly while strengthening community economic independence.
Moreover, the use of rooftop solar power strengthens energy equity in remote areas. Replacing oil-fueled generators with solar power plants allows rural communities to enjoy cheaper, environmentally friendly, and sustainable electricity. This condition is clear evidence that solar energy benefits not only urban populations but also delivers energy justice to the farthest corners of the country.
On the other hand, the private sector is increasingly adopting rooftop solar power as part of sustainability strategies. Implementation of solar power in industrial and mining areas shows that clean energy can support productivity while reducing carbon footprints. Close collaboration between the government, businesses, and communities is key to expanding national solar energy adoption.
The solar energy transition also opens strategic opportunities internationally. With the largest potential reserves in Southeast Asia, Indonesia has the chance to become an exporter of clean energy technology as well as skilled labor in renewable energy. This not only strengthens Indonesia’s regional role but also opens new markets amid global competition toward a green economy.
Public awareness of the importance of solar energy continues to rise. Government campaigns, education through pilot projects, and positive media coverage play a major role in encouraging public participation. With increasing awareness, the energy transition is not only a government agenda but also a collective movement of all elements of the nation.
Ultimately, the solar energy transition is a tangible expression of Indonesia’s commitment to energy independence and new job opportunities. With full support from the government, investors, and society, solar energy can become a milestone in the nation’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency. This transformation not only answers today’s challenges but also creates a valuable legacy of a cleaner environment and a more resilient economy for future generations.
*) The author is a Public Policy Observer
