The prospects of solar energy storage in Jakarta

Energy storage systems (ESS) are a major challenge in developing solar energy in Indonesia. ESS plays a vital role in overcoming the problem of intermittency or instability, which is often a major obstacle for renewable energy plants such as solar and wind power plants.

Jakarta – According to the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), accelerating the adoption of solar energy will not be effective without an adequate energy storage system. According to IESR, Indonesia's solar energy development lags far behind the target despite its vast potential.

This is important to achieve the global target of avoiding the earth's temperature rise above 1.5 degrees Celsius,” Fabby said at a press conference in Jakarta on Tuesday, October 15. Energy storage systems (ESS) are a major challenge in developing solar energy in Indonesia.

Umam et al. compared the economic feasibility of solar PV alone, the solar PV and lithium-ion BESS integrated system, and pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) in Indonesia and found that the economic feasibility of the solar PV and BESS integrated system is currently the lowest.

IESR emphasized that a solid understanding and strong commitment from policymakers and energy planners regarding the potential and benefits of solar energy and ESS are essential prerequisites for accelerating their growth in Indonesia's electricity system.

Importantly, Indonesia has a vast maritime area that almost never experiences strong winds or large waves that could host floating solar capable of generating >200,000 terawatt-hours per year. Indonesia also has far more off-river pumped hydro energy storage potential than required for balancing solar generation.