Energy Independence 2026: Pertamina Briefs President Prabowo on B50 and Bioethanol Progress

Jakarta, August 12, 2026 – Indonesia is making resolute strides towards energy independence and sustainability. PT Pertamina (Persero) CEO, Simon Aloysius Mantiri, met with President Prabowo Subianto yesterday afternoon at the State Palace to report on the latest progress of the company's strategic initiatives: the B50 biodiesel program and bioethanol development. This meeting highlighted the acceleration of the national energy transition, a top government priority for 2026.

President Prabowo welcomed the report, reaffirming the government's full support for Pertamina's efforts to secure energy supply and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. “Energy independence is no longer an option, but a necessity. B50 and bioethanol are our concrete steps towards a greener and self-reliant future,” President Prabowo stated, as quoted from the official Presidential Secretariat release.

Focus on B50: A Progressive Step in Biofuel

The B50 program, which involves blending 50% palm oil-based Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) with 50% diesel, was a primary focus of the meeting. Mantiri explained that Pertamina has completed extensive trials across various sectors, including land transportation and heavy industrial equipment, demonstrating optimal results in engine performance and efficiency. “We are optimistic that B50 can be fully implemented throughout Indonesia by the end of 2026, following successful trial phases and the distribution infrastructure adjustments we have prepared,” Mantiri elaborated.

This increased mandatory biodiesel blend is expected to significantly reduce diesel imports, save state foreign exchange, and add value to the national palm oil industry. Dr. Arifin Sudirman, an energy expert from Gadjah Mada University, lauded this move. “The transition to B50 demonstrates Indonesia's seriousness in leveraging domestic potential. This is not just about energy, but also about strengthening the economy of palm oil farmers and enhancing the competitiveness of our commodities in the global market,” he remarked.

Bioethanol: The Future of Indonesia's Renewable Energy

Beyond B50, bioethanol development was also a key agenda item. Mantiri outlined that Pertamina targets increasing bioethanol production capacity to 1.5 million kiloliters per year by 2026, focusing on utilizing local feedstocks such as sugarcane and cassava. Several new bioethanol plants in Java and Sumatra are reported to be completed and ready for full operation.

“Bioethanol will be a strategic complement to our energy mix, reducing dependence on fossil gasoline and opening new opportunities for the agricultural industry,” Mantiri stated. This program aligns with national carbon emission reduction targets and Indonesia's commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Professor Dr. Indah Lestari, an expert in energy policy and environment, highlighted bioethanol's positive impact. “Large-scale bioethanol development will create thousands of new jobs in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, while also ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable energy supply for future generations,” she commented. She also stressed the importance of efficient supply chain management to guarantee sustainable feedstock supply.

Government and SOE Synergy for Energy Independence

The meeting between Pertamina's CEO and President Prabowo underscores the strong synergy between the government and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in realizing Indonesia's energy independence vision. With appropriate regulatory support and investment, the B50 and bioethanol programs are expected to operate optimally, guiding Indonesia towards a cleaner, more independent, and sustainable energy era in 2026 and beyond.

These strategic steps are not only geared towards fulfilling domestic energy needs but also position Indonesia as a key player in the global energy roadmap, which is increasingly shifting towards renewables. This commitment is expected to continue, supported by innovation and cross-sector collaboration.