Indonesia develops low-pressure CNG technology to reduce LPG imports

Indonesia is developing low-pressure Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) technology as a strategic alternative to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to reduce reliance on imports. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has developed CNG cylinders using Metal Organic Frameworks (MOF) that can store gas at approximately 30 bar. This technology allows for a larger volume of gas compared to standard cylinders, potentially extending usage time from one week to up to 15 days for households.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia stated that the government is in the final stages of testing 3kg CNG cylinders. The testing, conducted by Lemigas, includes extreme condition assessments such as exposure to temperatures of 850 degrees Celsius. These trials are being carried out in both Indonesia and China to ensure safety before widespread public implementation, which is targeted for completion by late August 2026.