Denmark to build wind-power electricity generator



JAKARTA. Denmark plans to build a wind-powered electricity generator in Sulawesi, which will be the first in the country, coordinating minister for maritime affairs Rizal Ramli said here on Tuesday. This will be the first in the country if it is successfully carried out, he noted. "Indeed, it is still at a very early stage, but if it really happens it will be the first wind power project in Indonesia, which we might also try in other locations," he said after receiving Danish ambassador Casper Klynge at his office. He added that he supported the efforts of Denmark, which is one of the founders of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), to build the power plant. The minister said the plan is interesting, as there are many alternative energy sources that Indonesia has which could be developed, including biodiesel and solar energy. He noted that Denmark has chosen to develop wind energy, taking advantage of the strong winds in Sulawesi. Rizal said his office is currently intensifying the implementation of the program of Electricity Diversification and Acceleration Projects, through which it will increase the capacity of generators and boost the diversification of alternative energy sources to meet the needs for electricity throughout the country. He also said the program offers four steps, consisting of process acceleration, transmission procurement, diversification of alternative energy sources and decentralization of power plants. At the meeting, the two countries also agreed to increase cooperation in the maritime, energy and transportation fields. With regard to transportation, Ambassador Klynge said that a number of cargo companies from northern Europe already operate in Indonesia. "We wish the companies could help increase connectivity in Indonesia, not only for people but also goods, as well as to international markets," he said. With improved connectivity, Ambassador Klynee said it is hoped Indonesia's fishery products could be easily kept in cold storage or containers to improve their acceptability in other markets. "We have discussed a lot and, I believe, there could be cooperation beneficial to both sides," he said.


Editor: Hendra Gunawan