Renewable Energy is S Solok Feasibility: Deputy Regent

Padang Aro, (Antaranews Sumbar) - Deputy Regent of South Solok District, West Sumatra, Abdul Rahman said, renewable energy is one of the region natural wealth because it has geothermal and abundant hydro power potential. "Geothermal energy is now being managed by one private company while the potential for hydro power is commercially developed by two investors utilizing Batang Sangir River and 26 units of Micro Hydro Power Plant (PLTMH) managed by communities using several streams," he said in Padang Aro on Monday. He hoped South Solok in the future becomes an energy independent district. Energy independence at the village level has begun in Korong Wonorejo, which since 2005 has used PLTMH and maintain independently. With the inclusion of Millennium Challenge Account - Indonesia (MCAI) program, PLTMH is revitalized and its capacity is increased to fulfill the needs of people. According to him, 10 years experience of managing PLTMH together certainly has smart practices in technical and non technical experience in Community Based Management. "This experience and education needs to be shared with PLTMH managers in South Solok District so that there will be more PLTMHs which are operating and sustainable," he stated. In addition to build PLTMH and a house of knowledge, in Korong Wonorejo also built suspension bridge to facilitate the access to PLTMH management from the village to turbine house. On the other hand, Korong Wonorejo also has a potential waterfall tourism. There are several waterfalls that are worth developing and in integration with other objects in this area. "Gradually, local governments are allocating budgets for road improvements in Korong Waonorejo thus facilitating access to tourist destinations," he said. He hopes the infrastructure built brings great benefits, not just today but for the next ten years. (cha) Translator: Vicha Faradika