A new era of electrical connectivity has dawned for the coastal regions of Batam, Bintan, and Lingga, marked by the commissioning of a 20 KV Tower Crossing that promises to significantly enhance power distribution and economic opportunities across these islands.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Pulau Galang in Batam, was officiated by Governor of the Riau Islands, Ansar Ahmad, on 19 September 2024. This development represents a pivotal step in bolstering the archipelago’s infrastructure resilience and utility services.
Governor Ansar Ahmad spearheaded the activation of a 20 KV Tower Crossing from Pulau Galang Baru in Batam to Pulau Nguan. This includes a Medium Voltage Network (JTM) of 1.72 kms, a Low Voltage Network (JTR) of 2.06 kms, and a distribution substation with a capacity of 160 kVA, serving 185 new customers.
Concurrently, a similar tower crossing of 20 kV from Pulau Malin Besar (Desa Kelong) to Pulau Buton (Desa Air Glubi) in Bintan was commissioned, upgrading the local lighting from 14 hours to a full 24-hour service.
The activation also included the operation of a 20 kV Medium Voltage Submarine Cable Line (SKLTM) connecting Singkep, Selayar, and Lingga, enhancing the reliability of the Daik-Dabo system and expanding the network across multiple islands.
Governor Ahmad also launched several community-focused initiatives, including the establishment of communal solar power stations on several islands and the provision of New Electricity Connection Assistance (BPBL) to 1,230 underprivileged households in Batam, as part of a larger regional effort encompassing 12,000 households.
Read More: Batam Announces No Special Recruitment Path for Contract Workers in 2024 Civil Service Selection
During the event, Governor Ahmad expressed gratitude towards PT PLN and its subsidiaries for their collaborative efforts in the successful implementation of the Kepri Terang Program. He emphasized the project’s impact on improving local welfare and achieving an Electrification Ratio (RE) of 97.99% in 2023 for the Riau Islands Province.
This initiative not only strengthens the regional grid but also symbolizes a significant stride towards achieving sustainable development and economic diversification in Indonesia’s coastal areas. The project is expected to boost local industries, enhance living standards, and provide a more stable power supply, setting a precedent for similar developments in neighboring regions.
The recent inauguration of the Tower Crossing and related electrical infrastructure across the Batam, Bintan, and Lingga coasts marks a major advancement in regional connectivity and power reliability, showcasing a significant governmental commitment to enhancing the archipelago’s infrastructure and quality of life.
Sources: Barometer Rakyat, Pemprov Kepri (2024)
