PT PLN (Persero) has started infrastructure work for geothermal drilling in the Mataloko site in the Ulubelu village, Ngada Regency on the island of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. The preparation work is about 80% done now and is targeted for completion in 2025, with a target start of drilling 2026.
PT PLN is planning for a 2×10 MW development in the Mataloko site, having been assigned the Geothermal Working Area (WKP) by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources back in 2019. The infrastructure work in preparation for drilling involved the construction of the well pads, road access, and the drilling support pipes.
The status of the project was announced by PT PLN during a press event where journalists from the Ngada Regency were invited to the project site. The media activity was meant to foster partnership between the project developers and members of the press. This is particularly important in Flores, where community opposition against geothermal projects has become increasingly powerful in the past several months.
Moreover, PT PLN gave assurance that the agency will continue to conduct outreach activities with affected residents and cooperate with provincial and district governments to ensure that accurate and transparent information is provided.
“I hope this activity will help PLN convey clear and accurate information regarding the development of the Mataloko Geothermal Power Plant, while also providing education for the people of Ngada Regency,” said Head of Geothermal Engineering and Assistant Project Manager Adrys Silaban.
“Many people are hoping for a direct explanation from PLN. Through this media visit, we want to ensure the information they receive is clear, accurate, and sourced from the right source,” added General Manager of PT PLN Nusra Rizki Aftarianto.
Source: Lombok Post and Kupang News
