Pertamina Launches Indonesia's First Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant in Ulubelu

On September 9, 2025, Pertamina marked a pivotal moment in Indonesia's energy landscape with the inauguration of its first green hydrogen pilot plant in Ulubelu, Lampung. This groundbreaking project, celebrated by key government officials including the Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Yuliot Tanjung, is poised to transform the region into a hub for clean energy production.

The Ulubelu facility is designed as a comprehensive clean energy laboratory, integrating four geothermal power units with a total capacity of 220 MW. Yuliot emphasized that the project adheres to stringent health, safety, security, and environmental standards. Its implementation is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives across Indonesia, showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

With a focus on commercial viability, the pilot plant will assess production costs, technological efficiency, and business models for green hydrogen. The choice of Ulubelu as the project site was strategic, benefiting from robust geothermal infrastructure, stable electricity supply, and proximity to distribution routes. This location is ideal for testing hydrogen integration into energy networks and industrial markets.

Pertamina's CEO, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, hailed the project as a historic milestone for Indonesia's energy transition. He expressed hopes that it would not only enhance the national clean energy mix but also yield significant benefits for local communities. The green hydrogen plant symbolizes national progress, aligning with Pertamina’s broader commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2060.

The investment in the Ulubelu plant, totaling approximately $3 million, will support the acquisition of advanced electrolyzer technology and necessary infrastructure. This initiative is anticipated to create hundreds of jobs across various sectors, prioritizing local workforce involvement to ensure direct community impact.

In terms of environmental benefits, the green hydrogen produced at the plant is projected to significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional grey hydrogen production methods. This aligns with Indonesia's ambitious decarbonization goals and reinforces Pertamina's role as a leader in the global green energy movement.

The Ulubelu project is also seen as a catalyst for economic development, enhancing local skills and fostering new eco-friendly economic opportunities. As the region evolves from its coffee-producing reputation to a center for green energy, the potential for Ulubelu to emerge as a key player in the Asian green energy market is promising.

The initiative has garnered support from various governmental levels, illustrating a collaborative approach to energy transformation. Local communities are actively engaged in sustainable practices, including environmentally friendly agriculture and cooperative business ventures, ensuring that the benefits of this project are felt at the grassroots level.

As the pilot plant enters its operational phase, Pertamina is optimistic that its success will not only contribute to Indonesia’s energy independence but also leave a lasting legacy of clean energy for future generations. This project exemplifies how clean energy initiatives can drive social and economic empowerment, reaffirming the importance of a sustainable energy future.