Indonesia's state-owned electricity company, PLN, has launched a new program called "Electrifying Agriculture" aimed at improving agricultural productivity while reducing diesel usage in the farming industry. The program has already shown impressive results, with efficiency gains of 45-50% in farming operations in some areas.
One of the key areas where the program has been implemented is in the Bantul regency of Central Java, which is known for being one of Indonesia's most important agricultural areas. Bantul is home to some of the country's most productive farms, including those that produce 70% of the red onions consumed in the region.
The Electrifying Agriculture program involves using PLN electricity to power irrigation pumps and replace diesel-powered generators, resulting in more efficient and eco-friendly farming practices. This program is part of Indonesia's broader efforts to revitalize the agricultural sector and boost the local economy, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a recent discussion between the Bantul Regent and the General Manager of PLN Unit Induk Distribusi Jawa Tengah & DIY, it was highlighted that the Electrifying Agriculture program has the potential to not only improve productivity but also promote agro-tourism. By reducing air pollution and making farming practices more eco-friendly, the program can help farmers tap into a new market of tourists interested in sustainable and organic farming.
The PLN and Bantul Regency have already collaborated on several Electrifying Agriculture projects, including using sand on beaches as a growing medium and using electric pumps to irrigate fields. These projects have already shown impressive results, with some farms seeing productivity gains of up to 14,000 tons in just one year.
Overall, the Electrifying Agriculture program is an important step forward for Indonesia's agricultural sector. By leveraging clean energy and innovative farming practices, the program has the potential to improve productivity, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable farming practices in one of the country's most important sectors.
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