Indonesia’s PLN Implements Temporary Load‑shedding Amid Coal Supply Shortage

State electricity utility PLN has imposed temporary, targeted load‑shedding in several regions as two large power plants remain offline due to technical issues. The utility cited operational constraints and a shortfall of medium‑calorie coal, estimating a deficit of 18‑20 million tonnes against its 2026 demand of 154 million tonnes. PLN’s executive vice‑president Gregorius Adi Trianto said the load‑management measures are temporary and will be phased out as supply improves. The ministry of energy, led by Bahlil Lahadalia, acknowledged the coal quality decline and higher production costs as contributing factors, and is seeking solutions to the shortage. PLN apologized for the inconvenience caused to households, businesses, and public services across Java.

The incident has prompted calls for a thorough investigation into possible procurement irregularities, with authorities emphasizing the need for transparent oversight to safeguard the national power system.