ABB, a global technology leader in electrification and automation, has reaffirmed its commitment to support Indonesia’s energy transition agenda, emphasizing modernization, efficiency, and cost reduction across both renewable and fossil-based power systems.

ABB executives said that while the country remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, the focus should not only be on building new renewable capacity, but also on improving existing power plants.

“What we can do is make the existing systems more reliable, cleaner, and more efficient. That is also part of modernization,” Vice President of ABB's Energy Industries division for Southeast Asia, Abhinav Harikumar, said during a media conference in Jakarta, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

Asked about nuclear energy, ABB clarified that it does not advocate for a single energy source. Instead, the company focuses on enabling a broad mix of technologies to support Indonesia’s energy transition.

“Energy transition is not about one source replacing the other overnight. It’s an equation with multiple sources. New energy should be added where possible, but existing plants must also be made more efficient and cleaner,” Abhinav said.

On the economic front, ABB acknowledged that affordability is critical for markets, like Indonesia. The company highlighted its role in the so-called “energy trilemma” balancing affordability, sustainability, and security.

Through technologies such as digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and automation, ABB aims to reduce maintenance costs, increase grid efficiency, and minimize power losses.

“This is not about ABB being a one-stop solution. Through our technology, we want to make new investments as low-cost as possible. At the same time, we seek to form global partnerships to make this transition happen,” he cited.

One example is ABB’s GeneX platform, which integrates real-time data from sensors across key equipment to optimize performance. By leveraging tools such as Asset Performance Management and smart sensors, ABB enables utilities and industries to achieve incremental cost savings while ensuring reliability.

ABB also underscored its collaboration with Indonesia’s state utility PLN on the development of a smart grid. The company emphasized that the initiative is PLN’s project, with ABB serving as one of many partners.

“ABB is having discussions with PLN on how our technology can play a role in the future grid requirements in Indonesia. ABB is ready to support, and we are excited because this project also includes renewable energy which is one of our passions,” Abhinav said.

Ultimately, ABB stressed that energy transition is not only about technological solutions but also about behavioral change in how society consumes electricity. “By integrating digital tools, automation, and AI in the right place, alongside responsible energy use, we can reduce costs and accelerate Indonesia’s transition to a sustainable energy future,” Abhi said.