Energy Observer: Public Mobility Key to Fuel Savings

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Energy economics observer Yayan Satyakti has emphasized that public mobility is a crucial component of transportation energy consumption.

“Transportation energy consumption is largely determined by public mobility, particularly in big cities such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya, which are the focus of fuel savings,” Yayan said during the RRI Pro3 dialogue on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

He made the statement in response to the government’s work-from-home (WFH) policy aimed at reducing national fuel consumption. Yayan noted that implementing WFH could significantly reduce fuel use, as shorter daily commutes automatically lower consumption.

“Transportation fuel consumption will decrease automatically if commuters cut back. This is particularly the case in crowded cities,” he said.

Yayan cautioned that limiting mobility must be carefully considered, as overly restrictive measures could harm the economy. “When mobility is restricted too much, economic activity slows down. Indonesian society’s movements are highly dependent on daily mobility,” he said.

He advised that energy conservation should begin in the public sector, with civil servants gradually encouraged to use public transportation. This measure, he said, could serve as a model for energy-saving behavior, while urban residents could adjust their consumption patterns more efficiently.

Yayan also emphasized the importance of strengthening national energy reserve capacity. A ninety-day energy storage standard, he said, would enhance Indonesia’s energy security. According to him, such reserves would reduce dependence on energy imports and shield domestic supply from fluctuations in global energy prices.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto asked his ministers to review fuel-efficiency measures, including the introduction of a shorter work week and WFH. He noted that developments in Europe and the Middle East could affect global energy prices, potentially impacting domestic food prices. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)