PLN and Universitas Andalas Strengthen Green Energy Development through a Campus Micro Hydro Power Plant in Support of SDG 7 and SDG 13

PLN has reviewed the construction of the Micro Hydro Power Plant (PLTMh) at Universitas Andalas as part of efforts to promote the development of new and renewable energy in West Sumatra. This initiative is closely related to SDG 7 on Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13 on Climate Action, as the development of the PLTMh on campus is intended to expand the use of green energy while supporting the energy transition target and Net Zero Emission 2060.

The review was conducted by PT PLN (Persero) Independent Commissioner Arcandra Tahar during his visit to the PLTMh site at Universitas Andalas. During the visit, he emphasized that PLN is overseeing the project to ensure that the Universitas Andalas PLTMh can begin operating soon. He also noted that construction of the facility began in 2018 through the DIPA budget of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and continued in 2021 with support from the DIPA budget of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, so that its presence is expected to provide maximum benefit.

According to Arcandra, West Sumatra has a strong opportunity to achieve energy self-reliance because it is supported by abundant local resources, ranging from wind, water, and micro hydro to geothermal energy. For that reason, the presence of the PLTMh at Universitas Andalas is seen as an example of productive utilization of the renewable energy mix. In addition to strengthening the concept of a green campus, the use of electricity generated from micro hydro is also considered in line with the future direction of energy development, which increasingly places renewable energy as a strategic choice.

Universitas Andalas Rector Efa Yonnedi stated that the development of the PLTMh is aligned with the university’s target of becoming a Botanical University in the coming years. He emphasized that Universitas Andalas has also demonstrated its commitment to environmental management through the presence of an Integrated Waste Processing Center that converts organic waste and dry branches into alternative fuel. This commitment is further strengthened by efforts to complete the PLTMh so that Universitas Andalas can become a model campus with a research site for new and renewable energy generation.

Support for renewable energy development in West Sumatra was also reaffirmed by the General Manager of PLN UID West Sumatra, Eric Rossi Priyo Nugroho. He stated that nearly 52 percent of the electricity consumed by the people of West Sumatra comes from new and renewable energy sources. Out of the total electricity supply of 731.4 MW in West Sumatra, micro hydro power contributes 41.6 MW, and according to him, the region still holds enormous potential for further micro hydro development. In this context, PLN expressed its support if Universitas Andalas is able to manage this potential effectively.

Overall, the development of the PLTMh at Universitas Andalas demonstrates that universities can take a more active role in advancing clean energy based on local potential. Through collaboration between higher education institutions and PLN, this initiative not only strengthens the direction of green campus transformation, but also provides a concrete example of how the education sector can contribute to the agenda of energy resilience and environmental sustainability in West Sumatra.