Greater Semarang Waste-to-Energy Project Aims for a Waste-Free Central Java by 2029

RRI.CO.ID, Semarang – Residents in the Greater Semarang area will soon enjoy a cleaner and healthier environment. The government is accelerating the construction of Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facilities to address the waste emergency, as cited in a written press release from the Ministry of Environment on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

This initiative is marked by an agreement between the Central Java Provincial Government, the City of Semarang, and Kendal Regency. This facility serves as a solution to the large-scale accumulation of waste that disrupts community activities.

Environment Minister, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, stated that advanced technology is essential for waste processing. The PSEL is expected to transform waste into a valuable source of electricity.

“Although many technologies and waste management methods are available, large-scale operations require advanced technology. PSEL serves as a strategic solution because it can convert waste into electricity. However, during the construction period, the Governor will lead waste reduction efforts using various available technologies as well as those to be provided,” he said.

Central Java Governor, Ahmad Luthfi, expressed his full commitment to ensuring the success of this environmental cleanup program. The primary goal is to create a region that is completely free of trash by 2029.

“Today we are proud to have received direct guidance from the Minister, which is also an instruction from the President. By 2029, we aim for zero waste. We are committed to reducing waste so that waste in Central Java can be properly managed and we can truly achieve zero waste,” he conveyed.

This development is urgently needed because waste production in Semarang and Kendal reaches 1,627 tons per day. Eventually, the PSEL machine will be capable of processing around 1,100 tons of waste daily.

The local government has pledged to conduct extensive public awareness campaigns for residents during the project’s construction phase. This aims to firmly instill a culture of clean living within the community.

The Greater Semarang PSEL project promotes a concept of environmentally friendly and sustainable regional cooperation. This collaboration involves the private sector to ensure the stable operation of the waste processing equipment.