Lompo Battang Geothermal can Last a Century
17 April 2013 07:03 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Makassar - Geothermal potential at Mount Lompo Battang in Gowa, South Sulawesi, is estimated to have a capacity of up to 200 Megawatts (MW). "We still need to prove and require more diagnosis," Yogi Sudarman, an expert staffer for the directorate general of new and renewable energy at the Ministry of Energy, said on Monday (4/15).
Geothermal resources at Battang Lompo are derived from magma that is a million years old. The potential can be used up to 100 years from now, "as long as there is water that goes into the soil," Yogi added.
Yogi said that through the Government Investment Center (PIP), the Ministry of Finance has prepared some Rp3 trillion to exploit Indonesia's geothermal potential. To exploit wells at Lompo Battang, approximately Rp300 billion is needed.
"PIP is interested in providing the funds but they need to be convinced that there is potential at Lompo Battang," he said.
Khalil Sihab, head of geology and mineral resources at South Sulawesi's Energy and Mineral Resources Department, said there are 16 geothermal locations in the province that are still untapped. The locations include Bittuang in Tana Toraja and Parara in North Luwu.
"We are offering Mount Lompo Battang for exploration as it is relatively volcanic," Khalil said.
MUHAMMAD YUNUS