WA & Indonesia talk for renewable energy initiatives
WA’s energy minister Bill Johnston has met with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia to talk renewable energy.
Earlier in the week, Mr Johnston led a WA delegation to host talks around opportunities for cooperation and the challenges facing WA and Indonesia as the countries transition towards net zero, including energy distribution to remote communities and carbon capture and storage.
Discussions focused on identifying new sources of energy and the actions required for the transition.
Indonesia is the world’s largest exporter of coal, however, they have significant potential to generate renewable energy through geothermal, hydropower, solar and other sources.
The delegation also consisted of Horizon Power with representatives from there and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia participating in the Indonesia Connect Roadshow.
Representatives from Horizon Power shared their experience in deploying low carbon technology solutions to respond to unique challenges in small and isolated microgrids in regional WA.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Australia’s Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre and Indonesia’s National Battery Research Institute. These two organisations will work together in capacity building, education and training to develop the battery ecosystem and battery standardisation.
The MoU aims to strengthen collaboration in battery research, technology and innovation between Australia and Indonesia, and aligns with the Plan of Action on cooperation in critical minerals signed between WA and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in July 2023.
Mr Johnston commented on the discussions.
“WA is well-placed to collaborate with Indonesia to meet net zero targets,” he said.
“These engagements, including the MoU signing between Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre and the National Battery Research Institute, demonstrate the potential for cooperation.
“I’m looking forward to continuing our productive and resourceful relationship as both regions work towards a green energy future.”
