InfoSAWIT, SOUTH PAPUA - On that morning, the sun had just begun to shine over Boven Digoel Regency, South Papua. Amidst the palm oil plantations, the sound of machinery and workers' activities could be heard from the ongoing construction site. This is not just an ordinary project; it is the first Biogas Power Plant in South Papua initiated by Tunas Sawa Erma (TSE) Group.
"We realize that the palm oil industry must continue to innovate, not only for business sustainability but also for the environment," said Luwy Leunufna, Director of TSE Group, in a statement to InfoSAWIT on Saturday (March 8, 2025).
He further explained that while the initial investment is substantial, in the long run, it will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels. With an investment of US$ 3.6 million, TSE Group is designing a biogas facility that processes palm oil mill effluent (POME) into renewable energy. Two giant biogas tanks, each with a capacity of 7,800 cubic meters, stand firm in the factory area. Once operational, this facility will generate 2 MW of electricity to support various activities, including the operation of the Palm Kernel Crushing Plant.
However, energy efficiency is not the only primary goal. Luwy explained that this project is part of the company's commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2050. "With the Biogas Power Plant connected to BioCNG, we are accelerating our steps towards sustainability. We aim to balance the emissions released, replace oil-fueled heavy equipment with electric vehicles, and transition from B30 to B40 and B50 in accordance with government regulations," he stated.
This project aligns with Indonesia's commitment to ratifying the Paris Agreement. TSE Group believes that only through collaboration and innovation can national emission reduction targets be achieved.
In the coming months, this biogas plant is scheduled to be inaugurated. Moreover, TSE Group has also planned to develop similar facilities at five other locations gradually, as outlined in the company's Emission Reduction Roadmap.
This initiative serves as tangible evidence that the palm oil industry can advance without compromising the environment. Amid global challenges, TSE Group chooses to innovate, providing real solutions in the effort to create a greener and more sustainable industry. (T2)
