RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Disruptions in global oil distribution, particularly through strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, have prompted the Indonesian government to accelerate its transition toward net zero emissions.

“Now is the right time to consider alternative energy sources. Indonesia has enormous potential, and we are accelerating the transition to net zero emissions to maximize renewable energy resources, which total more than 3,000 gigawatts,” said Secretary of the Directorate General of New, Renewable Energy, and Energy Conservation (EBTK) at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Haris, during the Denpasar Discussion Forum held virtually in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He explained that the government is monitoring the escalating conflict in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has triggered fuel price increases in 85 countries. Around 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed to several countries, directly affecting global distribution.

In response to potential price hikes, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that fuel stocks remain secure. The government urged the public to stay calm, assuring that fiscal stability is being maintained.

Preventive measures have been introduced to reduce fuel consumption.

A work-from-home policy for civil servants will take effect on Friday, April 10, 2026, projected to save IDR 6.2 trillion in fuel compensation and reduce household spending by up to IDR 59 trillion.

Efficiency measures also include restrictions on official travel, promoting environmentally friendly transportation through Car Free Day, and implementing the MyPertamina barcode system, which limits fuel distribution to 50 liters per vehicle per day. The private sector is encouraged to adopt flexible work patterns and an energy-saving culture.

The medium-term strategy focuses on fossil fuel substitution. The 50 percent biodiesel blend policy (B50), scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026, is expected to save 4 million kiloliters of diesel fuel, equivalent to IDR 48 trillion.

Road trials of biodiesel have already covered more than 30,000 kilometers with positive results. The government is also encouraging the use of ethanol (E10) in gasoline and the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Under President Prabowo Subianto’s direction, the government has set a long-term goal for renewable energy-based power plants to dominate up to 100 percent of national electricity generation within the next decade. Development of solar, hydro, geothermal, and nuclear energy is part of this strategy.

“Nuclear energy is not only for weapons. It is also for health, education, and energy. Renewable energy is clean, and nuclear energy is the cleanest,” Haris said.

To accelerate the transition, a special task force has been established with three priorities: developing large-scale solar power plants, converting fossil-fueled vehicles to electric, and expanding bioenergy production.

With the current renewable energy mix at 15.75 percent, the government is optimistic that accelerated policies and investments will help achieve its targets. Officials say the global crisis has created momentum to build a more independent, clean, and sustainable energy system. ***