Unlocking Timor Island solar energy Potential: 20.72 GW of Extraordinary Power
Timor Island stands on the cusp of a renewable energy revolution, backed by a staggering solar power potential estimated at 20.72 GW. A comprehensive study by the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has provided a detailed blueprint for how the Indonesian portion of the island can transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2050. Titled “100% Renewable Energy-Based Islands and Flexibility in the Electric Power System,” the research highlights the island’s total renewable energy capacity of 30.81 GW, positioning solar as the cornerstone of its energy future.
The IESR Vision: A Solar-Driven Grid for Timor Island
According to the IESR’s modeling, achieving full decarbonization by mid-century is not only feasible but is overwhelmingly reliant on solar power. The proposed energy mix projects that large-scale solar photovoltaics (PV) will account for 82% of all electricity generation. This primary power source will be supplemented by a strategic blend of other renewables, including mini-hydro (9%), wind power (6%), and biomass (3%), creating a resilient and diversified energy system.
A Phased Transition to Renewable Energy on Timor Island
The path to 100% renewable energy is outlined in a two-stage strategy. In the short term, leading up to 2035, the focus will be on systematically replacing existing coal (PLTU) and gas (PLTG) power plants with solar PV and biomass generation. This initial phase requires transparent government planning and intervention to prioritize clean energy development.
The long-term strategy, spanning from 2036 to 2050, involves a complete phase-out of all remaining fossil fuel generation. This ambitious goal includes the early retirement of legacy power plants and the large-scale deployment of solar PV integrated with battery energy storage systems (BESS). The study projects a critical need for 14.14 GW of BESS capacity by 2050 to ensure grid stability and continuous power supply.
Investment and Economic Growth on Timor Island
Financing this transformation is a significant undertaking. The IESR estimates a total investment of approximately USD 5.21 billion (Rp 85 trillion) across Timor and Sumbawa Islands by 2050. For the Indonesian part of Timor Island, this translates to an annual investment of around USD 186 million between 2026 and 2050. This capital injection is expected to deliver 6.2 GW of installed renewable energy capacity, securing the region’s energy independence and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Sources
- Some Indonesian Islands Aim for 100% Renewable Energy by 2050 – CleanTechLaw.com
- Study Launching: 100% Renewable Energy-Based Island – IESR
- Sulawesi, Timor and Sumbawa Islands Can Be Fully Electrified by Renewable Energy – IESR
- Some Indonesian islands aim for 100% renewable energy by 2050 – Kazinform
- IESR: Timor, Sumbawa, and Sulawesi islands can be independent of renewable energy – TanahAir.Net
- East Timor Government Launches Solar Energy Project – ALER
