Enviro News Asia, Manado — The Government of the Republic of Indonesia, through the Ministry of State Secretariat (Kemensetneg) and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), in collaboration with the Government of Germany through GIZ Indonesia and the Government of Kenya, convened the 3rd Exchange of South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) on Geothermal Energy. This activity forms part of the Renewable Energy Mini Grids for Triangular Cooperation in Indonesia (ENTRI) program under the broader framework of South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC). The program aims to strengthen knowledge exchange, capacity building, and development collaboration in the field of renewable energy among partner countries.
Held from 8–15 November 2025 in Manado, North Sulawesi, the program brought together 17 participants from key Kenyan energy institutions, including the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum of Kenya, the Geothermal Development Company (GDC), Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), academic representatives, and local community members. From Indonesia, the program also involved participants from various energy-sector stakeholders, including representatives of MEMR, the Provincial Government of North Sulawesi, the Tomohon City Government, private-sector actors, and academic partners from leading Indonesian universities who actively contributed to discussions and knowledge exchange.
As two of the world’s largest geothermal resource holders, Indonesia and Kenya shared best practices related to renewable energy policy, geothermal innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to advance low-carbon development.
As part of the field learning agenda, the delegation visited the Lahendong Geothermal Area operated by PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) to observe firsthand the implementation of geothermal technology, energy-efficiency innovations, and direct-use applications. PGE also presented its experiences in developing geothermal resources that deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits to surrounding communities. The delegation visited Lahendong Geothermal Power Plant Units 5 and 6, along with several geothermal beyond electricity initiatives, including Gula Aren Masarang, Lao-Lao Geothermal Park, the Flow2Max Technology, and the Booster Katrili, developed through collaboration between PGE and Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM).
To conclude the program, participants engaged in a cultural exchange activity by visiting Bunaken National Park, providing an opportunity to experience Indonesia’s marine biodiversity while strengthening intercultural understanding and personal connections.
Dr. Joseph Odongo Oketch, Head of the Kenyan Delegation, expressed hope that this initiative would expand development impact, foster technological innovation, and strengthen renewable energy ecosystems in developing countries. Through the ENTRI program, Indonesia, Kenya, and Germany reaffirm their shared commitment to enhancing international cooperation in clean and sustainable energy. (*)
