Batam named first Sumatra-based model city in Indonesia’s clean energy partnership with Germany
Batam has officially been selected as a pilot city for Indonesia’s Sustainable Energy Transition in Indonesia (SETI) project, marking a pivotal step in the nation’s clean energy roadmap through a strategic partnership with the German government.
Batam Takes the Lead in Clean Energy Shift
On June 25, 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), through the Directorate General of New, Renewable Energy, and Energy Conservation (EBTKE), officially named Batam as a pilot city for the Sustainable Energy Transition in Indonesia (SETI) project. This designation was confirmed via letter No. B-605/EK.02/DJE/2025.
A formal kick-off meeting was held at Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, Batam, to launch the program’s implementation. The initiative is part of a broader collaboration between ESDM and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).
International Consortium to Drive Implementation
SETI is being executed by a consortium of respected organizations, including GIZ (Germany’s international development agency), IESR (Institute for Essential Services Reform), WRI (World Resources Institute), and Yayasan CERAH Indonesia. The project aims to build a supportive ecosystem for sustainable energy transition — one that includes institutional frameworks, regulatory reforms, and financial mechanisms.
“The selection of Batam reflects its strategic potential as a center for innovation and green energy investment,” said Jefridin, Batam’s City Secretary, representing Mayor Amsakar Achmad during the event.
A Strategic Choice for Indonesia
Batam’s selection carries national and regional significance. As one of Sumatra’s major economic hubs and a manufacturing base, the city offers both industrial readiness and a strong platform for renewable energy adoption.
According to Jefridin, Batam is not only poised to scale up clean energy use but also to serve as a model for other Indonesian cities. “This is both a source of pride and an opportunity to educate the public about the urgency of energy transition,” he noted.
Economic and Environmental Benefits Expected
SETI’s local implementation is projected to bring dual benefits:
- Economically: It will attract sustainable investment, generate green jobs, and boost Batam’s regional competitiveness.
- Environmentally: It is expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions, support climate change mitigation, and improve residents’ quality of life.
“Clean energy transition is a long-term investment in health and environmental preservation,” Jefridin emphasized
Government Pledges Full Support
Andriah Feby Misna, Director of Various New and Renewable Energies at ESDM, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to supporting Batam throughout the energy transition. “This kick-off meeting is just the beginning. We aim to build strong, multisectoral collaboration for a successful transition,” she said.
Stakeholder engagement is seen as crucial in this early phase to align local goals with national clean energy targets under Indonesia’s net-zero ambition.
Batam’s appointment as a pilot city under the SETI program signifies a major step toward sustainable energy in Indonesia, reinforcing both national policy goals and regional leadership. For both Indonesians and Singaporeans who share interconnected economic and environmental spaces, Batam’s transition offers a glimpse into a cleaner, more sustainable future fueled by collaboration and innovation.
Sources: Batam News (2025) , Berita Batam (2025)
Keywords: Batam Energy Transition, SETI Project, Kementerian ESDM, Renewable Energy Indonesia, Germany Indonesia Partnership, Clean Energy Investment
