The British government has confirmed its support for Indonesia's energy transition through strategic partnerships, one of which is the Pandanduri Micro Hydro Power Plant (PLTMH) project in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

Indonesia is a country with the second largest geothermal potential in the world. Indonesia can be a key player in renewable energy. NTB, which is located in the “Pacific Ring of Fire” area, has significant geothermal potential and benefits from topographic conditions rich in rivers and lakes, including Segara Anak Lake near Mount Rinjani.

UK Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said the Pandanduri PLTMH project marked an important step in ensuring long-term energy security and the challenge of global climate change.

She said that UK support for the Pandanduri PLTMH project showed that the UK had the same vision as Indonesia in combating climate change and promoting inclusive energy access. International cooperation, especially between developing and developed countries, is essential to achieving global sustainability targets.

McCarthy said this initiative would bring long-term benefits to local communities. He also highlighted the project as a strong example of the positive impact of renewable energy on people's daily lives.

The collaboration also offers a platform for knowledge exchange between the two countries. Indonesia benefits from the UK's expertise in renewable energy policy and integrated systems. On the other hand, the UK gains insight into the real-world application of clean energy projects, especially in developing countries.

The 2x290 Kilowatt (KW) power plant is the result of collaboration between Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (SMI) and Brantas Energi. The project is designed to produce affordable clean electricity for residents around the Pandanduri Dam and the surrounding community of East Lombok.

NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal said that his region has abundant renewable energy potential, in the form of geothermal energy and hydro energy.

"We have hundreds of geothermal sites because our region is near a volcanic zone. We also have a large lake near Mount Rinjani, which is suitable for the development of micro hydro power plants," Muhamad Iqbal said on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

The governor is confident that with the right technology, hundreds of PLTMH can be built in his area. He said NTB is currently reviewing the regional government's energy policy to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy. He also emphasized the need for adaptive regulations to attract investment and improve renewable energy infrastructure throughout the province of NTB.