The governments of Indonesia and New Zealand have agreed to expand cooperation in the geothermal field. The program, called the “Indonesia-Aotearoa New Zealand Geothermal Energy Program” (PINZ), has been extended to 2028.
The program aims to facilitate the exchange of technology, collaboration, and knowledge sharing between both countries in the development and utilization of geothermal energy.
Through the PINZ program, the two nations can share their experiences, best practices, drive technological innovation and development in the geothermal energy sector. This includes aspects such as exploration, development, utilization, and environmental management of geothermal energy.
The New Zealand government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), has also committed to providing NZD 15.6 million (approximately USD 9.9 million) in funding to support the development of the geothermal industry in Indonesia.
Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that harnesses the Earth's internal heat for power generation and heating. Both Indonesia and New Zealand possess significant potential of geothermal resources and have made notable advancements in geothermal energy development.
Arifin Tasrif, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) of Indonesia, expressed gratitude for the cooperation between Indonesia and New Zealand, and hopes that this joint effort will accelerate the development of geothermal energy in Indonesia while providing sustainable solutions for Indonesia's energy transition.
Nanaia Mahuta, the Minister of MFAT of New Zealand, emphasized that this collaboration will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and bring extensive benefits to the Indo-Pacific region.
The two countries have more than a decade of cooperation and have signed a series of agreements specifically related to geothermal training, geothermal drilling project development, scholarships for Indonesian students, and other opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
