Ranked as the 112th largest power generation facility in Indonesia, PB. Sudirman/Mrica stands out with a capacity of 180.9 MW, making it a significant contributor to the country's hydroelectric sector. This facility, operated by PLN - PT. Indonesia Power, is one of Indonesia's top hydro plants, holding the 9th position among 66 such facilities. The plant's hydroelectric technology harnesses flowing water to produce electricity, showcasing the country's commitment to renewable energy sources amidst a national landscape dominated by gas. With a share of just 0.17% of Indonesia's total capacity of 108,203 MW, PB. Sudirman/Mrica plays a vital role in diversifying the energy mix in a nation where gas-fired plants lead the way. Located in close proximity to other significant hydro power generation facilities, PB. Sudirman/Mrica is flanked by the PLTA Panglima Besar Soedirman and the Commander in Chief Sudirman Dam, both boasting identical capacities of 180.9 MW. This trio of plants forms a powerful hydro cluster, substantially enhancing the local grid's reliability and capacity. Additionally, within a 50 km radius, the region is home to gas and geothermal plants, including the PLTG Sunyaragi 1 2 3 4 (80 MW), Dieng (60 MW), and PLTA Garung (26.4 MW). This diverse mix of energy sources not only stabilizes supply but also supports Indonesia’s transition towards more sustainable energy practices. Indonesia's energy profile reveals a strong reliance on gas, which dominates the energy landscape, yet the government’s focus on renewables is gradually changing this narrative. As part of a broader plan to reduce carbon emissions and increase renewable energy's share in the national grid, PB. Sudirman/Mrica's operation is crucial. The ongoing commitment to hydroelectric power aligns with global trends toward sustainable energy solutions. Commissioned in an era when Indonesia was making significant strides in its energy sector, this facility has stood the test of time since its inception. The operational expertise of Indonesia Power, coupled with the strategic location of PB. Sudirman/Mrica, ensures that it continues to provide reliable energy while supporting the country’s environmental goals. Looking forward, PB. Sudirman/Mrica is positioned to play an even more critical role as Indonesia enhances its renewable energy capacity and seeks to meet international climate commitments.
16 years old
Indonesia, Asia
- Primary Fuel Type
- Hydro
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
Indonesia- Continent
- Asia
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Hydro power generation utilizes the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity. This renewable energy source operates primarily through the use of hydroelectric power plants, which are strategically placed on rivers or in locations where water flow is significant. The fundamental principle behind hydro power generation is relatively straightforward: water stored in a reservoir is released, flowing through turbines that convert the water's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy through generators. The effectiveness of hydro power plants largely depends on the height from which water falls, known as the 'head,' and the volume of water flowing through the turbines, referred to as the 'flow rate.' Together, these factors determine the total energy output of the plant. Globally, there are approximately 7,842 hydro power plants distributed across 128 countries, with a total installed capacity of about 1,288.5 gigawatts (GW). China leads the world in hydro power generation, boasting 989 plants with a capacity of 279.9 GW. Other notable countries include Brazil with 756 plants (119.4 GW), the United States with 1,491 plants (110.2 GW), Canada with 612 plants (102.4 GW), and Madagascar, which, despite having only five plants, has a significant capacity of 91.1 GW. The extensive network of hydroelectric facilities underscores the importance of this energy source in the global power generation landscape. The advantages of hydro power generation are numerous. It is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for electricity production. Hydro power plants typically have low operational costs once established, and they can be adjusted to meet fluctuating electricity demands, providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, hydroelectric plants contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based power generation, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts. However, hydro power is not without its disadvantages. The construction of large dams can lead to significant ecological and social disruptions, including the displacement of communities and alterations to local ecosystems. The creation of reservoirs can flood vast areas of land, impacting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Moreover, hydro power generation is highly dependent on climatic conditions; droughts can significantly reduce water availability, thereby compromising electricity output. In recent years, global trends indicate a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with hydro power continuing to play a pivotal role. Many countries are investing in modernizing existing hydroelectric plants to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Innovations such as small-scale hydro systems, which have a reduced ecological footprint, are gaining traction, especially in regions where large-scale projects may be infeasible. Looking ahead, the future of hydro power generation appears promising yet complex. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the availability of water resources for hydroelectric generation may become increasingly unpredictable. This necessitates a balancing act between harnessing hydroelectric potential and protecting the environmental and social integrity of affected regions. Continued advancements in technology and design, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, will be crucial for the evolution of hydro power in the global energy mix. With its significant capacity and established infrastructure, hydro power remains a cornerstone of the renewable energy landscape, poised to contribute to a sustainable future.
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