Sidoarjo, October 2, 2023 - The business unit of Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) Sinar Mas, PT Pabrik Kertas Tjiwi Kimia Tbk (Tjiwi Kimia) reaffirms its commitment to sustainability by integrating photovoltaic technology with solar panels into its operations. This step is part of PT Tjiwi Kimia's commitment to promoting environmentally friendly business practices and supporting the Indonesian government's decarbonization targets.
To coincide with the 51st anniversary of PT Tjiwi Kimia, the company inaugurates the operation of Rooftop Solar Power Plant (PLTS) installation with a capacity of 9.8 MWp, covering an area of 11.4 hectares.
This PLTS installation is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 12,400 tons of CO2e annually. The installation involves 11 large buildings, utilizing the potential of building roofs without disturbing green open spaces. With the electricity generated, it is expected to support lighting and other production needs.
In the future, similar installations will be carried out in all APP Sinar Mas mills.
Suhendra Wiriadinata, President Director of PT Tjiwi Kimia, stated, "Focusing on sustainability principles, we are committed to conducting our business while considering environmental, economic, social, and good governance aspects. The adoption of solar panel technology is a tangible manifestation of our dedication to contributing to creating a better future through the decarbonization process."
Tjiwi Kimia's step aligns with the commitment to enhance ESG performance in every business activity and operational aspect of APP Sinar Mas, as outlined in the Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030. The application of ESG principles is an essential aspect of the company's operations, and it must be the focus as it will have a significant impact on long-term business sustainability.
The application of ESG principles in production includes reducing carbon footprint (decarbonization) through best practices, one of which is using efficient and environmentally friendly technology. It also involves increasing the composition of renewable energy in the energy mix and reducing energy consumption.
The Governor of East Java, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, appreciates Tjiwi Kimia's innovation. "Through this initiative, Tjiwi Kimia has demonstrated how the industry can thrive while preserving the environment," she said.
Suhendra added that, in a broader context, Tjiwi Kimia's adoption of solar panel technology aligns with the Indonesian government's commitment to achieving zero emissions and promoting FOLU Net Sink 2030. The use of this technology in paper production not only improves operational efficiency but also ensures a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
By actively contributing to the government's targets, Tjiwi Kimia demonstrates the active role of the industry in creating a sustainable future.
As part of their sustainable initiative, Tjiwi Kimia also plans to expand the use of these solar panels through Phase 2 of the Rooftop Solar Power Plant (PLTS) Program, which has already begun field preparations. Phase 2 of this program will be built gradually according to the feasibility study's results. Each step taken reinforces Tjiwi Kimia's vision to innovate and make a positive contribution to the environment and society.
"At Tjiwi Kimia, we believe that innovation and collaboration are the keys to creating a sustainable industrial future in Indonesia," concluded Suhendra Wiriadinata.