The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia-ESDM unveiled regulations for Carbon Capture and Storage CCS technology, said to be a strong step toward developing sustainable industrial practice and achieving Indonesia’s ambitious net zero emission goals. The regulation, which was published on December 20, 2024, under Ministerial Regulation No. 16/2024, became effective on December 24, 2024. The new law comprises 29 chapters and 75 articles on the implementation of CCS and thus opens new prospects in many fields as reported by Carbon Herald.
Potential Opportunities for the Oil and Gas Industry
Energy economics expert from Padjadjaran University Yayan Satyaki thinks it will benefit upstream oil and gas in Indonesia massively. This kind of technology takes carbon dioxide produced during industrial operations and stores them, hence a reduction in impacts on the environment from such hard-to-decarbonize industries. Satyaki sees a tremendous potential but remains sceptical of one of the primary challenges that developing infrastructure needed to deploy CCS represents.
Marjolijn Wajong, Executive Director of the Indonesian Petroleum Association, welcomes the new regulation, saying it is important for the legal clarity and certainty of businesses. According to Wajong, the new framework is crucial in allowing industry players to have confidence in CCS initiatives.
Wajong said, “CCS will support Indonesia’s plan to achieve the Net Zero Emission (NZE) target, while enabling economic growth by providing solutions for industries that are difficult to decarbonize.”
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Economic Growth and Job Creation
The adoption of CCS technology could boost Indonesia’s economy by attracting clean energy investments and creating jobs as reported by Carbon Herald.
By reducing carbon emissions, CCS also allows industries like oil, gas, and cement to continue operations while meeting environmental regulations.
Indonesia’s geographical advantages play a crucial role in the viability of CCS. Its vast saltwater aquifers and depleted oil and gas reservoirs provide ideal, secure locations for storing captured carbon dioxide. Indonesia’s natural formations are perfect for long-term carbon storage, making the country an ideal and safe location for CCS projects.
The new regulations are key to Indonesia’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and becoming a regional carbon storage leader. This supports Indonesia’s COP29 pledge in Baku, where it committed to leading global CCS efforts for climate action.
Implementing these regulations and developing CCS projects will help Indonesia become a carbon storage hub, advancing its climate goals.