Indonesia's Energy Ministry Nears Completion of 3‑kg CNG Cylinder Tests

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) in Indonesia is in the final phase of technical trials for 3‑kilogram compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders intended to replace subsidised 3‑kg liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said Lemigas, the Oil and Gas Testing Center, is carrying out the last safety tests, including a high‑temperature firing test at 850 °C conducted in both Indonesia and China.

"I received a presentation three days ago on the performance of the 3‑kg cylinder and its valve. Lemigas is now conducting the final tests," Bahlil told reporters. He added that the remaining step is the extreme‑heat test, after which the cylinders could be introduced to the public within the month.

CNG is already used in commercial settings such as hotels and restaurants, but household deployment requires engineering solutions because CNG operates at 200‑250 bar versus LPG’s 5‑10 bar. The initiative aims to reduce Indonesia’s reliance on imported LPG by using domestically sourced natural gas, bolstered by recent gas discoveries in East Kalimantan.