Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Arifin Tasrif, has called for collaboration on energy transition among countries.
At a G20 Energy Transition Working Group (ETWG) parallel event entitled “Investment Forum on Energy Transition: High-Level Energy Transitions Dialogue” in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Thursday, he highlighted the importance of financing for clean energy transition efforts when speaking at international forums.
“Technology and innovation are important, but the economies of scale of potential energy transition projects are the most important. Indonesia is blessed with various energy sources,” Tasrif said, according to an official statement released the same day.
ETWG is one of the working groups in the Sherpa Track of the G20 that focuses on energy security, access, efficiency, and the transition to lower-carbon energy systems.
According to Tasrif, Indonesia has been using fossil fuels for quite a long time due to their availability in the country. Indonesia used to export crude oil but has turned into an importer. However, it still has abundant natural gas to support the country’s partners, he said.
Besides, the world is facing a global challenge in the form of climate change and needs to reduce emissions.
“Nowadays, our challenge is to fight the global climate issue and reduce emissions. We are gathered here to formulate joint efforts and face the challenges of the future. We must have a common goal and take initiative. Forget differences and think about bigger challenges in the future,” Tasrif emphasized.
Regarding the energy transition, the minister described the market as a machine, technology as driving gear, and energy as fuel.
“I think energy is finance. Without finance, we cannot turn the engine. We must increase the speed to achieve the target. These components are very important. Collaboration between countries who lead and those who are in need must be carried out together,” he remarked.
He further said that Indonesia has a market for energy derived from renewable sources such as solar power, geothermal, water, wind, and ocean currents. Currently, Indonesia is also waiting for the availability of storage, which is being developed.
“We need a green energy program to carry out our mission to achieve our goals. We also have mineral resources that are ready to be utilized and to work with other countries with technology,” he added.
Source: Antara News