PLN Indonesia Power (PLN IP), in collaboration with Bank Indonesia, is using discarded banknotes (Limbah Racik Uang Kertas, LRUK) as co-firing fuel in coal-fired power plants (PLTU). This partnership aims to support energy transition efforts and achieve Indonesia’s Net Zero Emissions (NZE) target by 2060.
Discarded banknotes have been tested to contain high biomass content, producing a blue flame when burned and are free of harmful substances (B3), making them very safe. Through the co-firing program, discarded banknotes can replace coal as a primary energy source, reducing carbon emissions in power generation.
This technology has been piloted at several coal-fired power plants, including PLTU Adipala in Central Java, PLTU Bengkayang, and PLTU Asam-Asam. By May 2024, the use of biomass for co-firing at PLTU Bengkayang reached 4%, while initial tests at PLTU Asam-Asam in December 2024 achieved a 5% utilization rate of discarded banknotes.
The collaboration will expand to Bank Indonesia’s offices nationwide and more PLN Indonesia Power coal-fired power plants. PLN and Bank Indonesia are committed to deepening their partnership, advancing the use of discarded banknotes as part of the energy transition, reducing dependence on coal, and promoting sustainable development.