Sanford Dam in Michigan, US, several months after failing in 2020. Research has indicated an increased risk of similar events due to more intense rainfall under a changing climate.

 Indonesian state-owned geothermal developer and operator PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGEO) progresses with plans to develop green fuel with the signing of a joint study agreement PT Pertamina Gas (PertaGas), a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk (PGAS).

Under the Joint Study Agreement, “Using Geothermal Electricity for Beyond Energy,” the two parties will collaboration in conducting technical studies, project feasibility evaluation, and identification of schemes for using geothermal electricity to produce green hydrogen and green ammonia.

Following an initial technical study, PGEO and Pertagas will proceed to a feasibility study to evaluate investment potential and business scheme development, considering factors such as resource allocation, selection of technology, and implementation timeline. The project will be implemented in a Geothermal Working Area (WKP) of PGEO, taking into account locations with both potential and support for the production of the green fuels.

The collaboration between PGEO and Pertagas in green fuel production is part of PGE’s strategy to not only develop geothermal energy in the upstream sector, but also expand its utilization downstream through the development of an integrated green industrial ecosystem.

PGEO had just recently entered into a partnership with France-based Genvia to collaborate in developing green hydrogen production through the integration of advanced solid oxide electrolyzer (SOEL) technology.

“The synergy between PGE and Pertagas will accelerate the development of geothermal energy potential as a clean energy source. This is in line with PGE’s commitment as a leader in the geothermal industry and Pertagas’ role in opening horizons in various new business opportunities to support Pertamina in becoming a green energy giant,” said Julfi Hadi, President Director of PGEO.

Pertagas is Indonesia’s national energy distribution infrastructure company, managing almost 3000 kilometers of gas transmission pipeline and has expertise in managing infrastructure for the storage and distribution of green fuels.

“As part of the Pertamina Group, Pertagas is ready to contribute to the development of infrastructure that supports the green energy ecosystem. This collaboration with PGE is an important step to start efforts to supply green hydrogen and green ammonia to the domestic and export markets,” added Gamal Imam Santoso, President Director of Pertagas.