Prabowo Pushes E20 Fuel Plan, Eyes Construction of 50 Ethanol Plants

Prabowo Pushes E20 Fuel Plan with Ambitious Ethanol Plant Expansion

Tempatdonasi.com – President Prabowo Subianto has announced a comprehensive strategy to transform Indonesia’s energy landscape through the implementation of E20 fuel, a blend containing 20 percent ethanol. As part of this initiative, Prabowo Pushes E20 Fuel Plan by committing to construct between 30 to 50 new ethanol production facilities across the archipelago. This ambitious infrastructure development aims to establish Indonesia as a regional leader in biofuel production and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

During a joint harvest activity with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in Malang, East Java, on Friday, the President outlined the timeline and objectives for this energy transition. He emphasized that Indonesia has reached a critical milestone in its fuel blending capabilities, enabling the use of E20 grade fuel nationwide. The expansion of ethanol production capacity is essential to support this transition and ensure adequate supply for consumers and industries alike.

“Earlier, officials said we could reach E20. We need a factory. We only have one factory. I decided earlier that we would build at least 30 factories, and if necessary, up to 50,” Prabowo stated, according to ANTARA news agency.

International Benchmarks and Energy Self-Sufficiency Goals

The President drew inspiration from successful international models, particularly India’s achievement of E20 fuel standards and Brazil’s pioneering work with E100, which utilizes pure ethanol. These examples demonstrate that developing nations can successfully implement advanced biofuel programs while addressing energy security concerns. Prabowo expressed confidence that Indonesia possesses the agricultural resources and technological capabilities to replicate and potentially surpass these achievements.

Energy self-sufficiency represents a cornerstone of the current administration’s economic policy. This commitment was recently reinforced through the inauguration of the Abadi Masela LNG Project on Thursday, July 16, marking the end of 28 years of development delays. Indonesia has also achieved global recognition as the first nation to produce B50, a biofuel blend combining palm oil with diesel in a 50-50 ratio.

The President highlighted that domestic production of palm oil-based diesel will eliminate the need for diesel imports beginning in July. This development carries significant economic implications, as it preserves foreign exchange reserves and strengthens Indonesia’s position in global energy markets. The government envisions a future where energy independence supports broader economic growth and stability.

Beyond energy initiatives, Prabowo urged all sectors of society to collaborate in achieving multiple national targets. These include food security, natural resource management, and technological innovation. A notable component of this vision is the upcoming launch of a national electric motorbike, designed specifically to serve farmers and rural communities with efficient, sustainable transportation solutions.