PLN Diesel Replacement Program – support through MENTARI Program
The MENTARI program, a flagship initiative of the Indonesian government, aims to promote the development and use of renewable energy in the country. Solar Power Indonesia (SPI) was engaged through the MENTARI program as a consultant to support the PLN Diesel Replacement Program (DRP). The DRP seeks to replace diesel-powered generation with renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security in Indonesia.
The objective of the DRP is to identify and develop opportunities for diesel replacement with renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, in PLN’s power generation mix. SPI’s role as a consulting partner was to provide technical expertise and guidance to support the implementation of the program.
SPI’s scope of work for the DRP included:
- Power System Optimization Modelling using HOMER (Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables)
- Feasibility Assessment and Concept Design Technology and Topology
- HOMER Training for Capacity Building
Initial analysis focussed on understanding of PLN’s current power generation infrastructure. Comprehensive understanding of locally available renewable energy resources is also essential – we developed site specific yield models for each of the sites using PVSyst. For optimization of individual site locations, we used HOMER to assess the technical and
Economic viability of different renewable energy scenarios, taking into account factors such as energy demand, resource availability, and project costs.
The DRP project achieved several key outcomes, including:
- Identification of feasible diesel replacement opportunities with renewable energy sources
- Development of concept designs for selected projects, including technology and topology recommendations
- Capacity building for PLN personnel through HOMER training, enhancing their ability to design and implement renewable energy projects.
- Technical guidance and support for PLN in the development of renewable energy projects
SPI is proud to have played a role in the PLN Diesel Replacement Program under the MENTARI initiative. Find out more about the MENTARI program here: