PT Geo Dipa Energi (Persero) (GDE) is currently studying the potential for lithium carbonate production in the Dieng geothermal working area (WKP) in Banjarnegara, Central Java.
Established in 2002, GDE is a company engaged in geothermal exploration and exploitation owned by PT Pertamina (Persero) since 2011.
Lithium Carbonate is one of the raw materials for electric battery components besides lithium hydroxide. Meanwhile, the lithium content comes from brine which is transported during geothermal well drilling.
The development of lithium in Indonesia is considered very important to increase innovation in the creation of a battery ecosystem for electric cars and motorbikes.
GDE opens up opportunities
According to the Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), about 75% of electric cars sold in Indonesia in 2022 use iron-based or lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) batteries. One of the electric cars that use the LFP is the Wuling Air EV. The Tesla brand from the United States also uses LFP batteries.
Currently GDE is studying using the direct lithium extraction (DLE) method which is applied according to field conditions.
GDE opens up opportunities for potential partners in the development of lithium associated minerals, later they will work on a feasibility study and develop a pilot project.
“These parties will have the advantage of unsolicited rights when the lithium utilization partner tender is held later,” said Delvirah Singkuang, GDE Lithium Development Project Manager, on July 7, 2023.
So far, GDE is still conducting a pre-feasibility study before opening an auction for lithium development cooperation at the Dieng WKP.
“Not yet auctioned, currently we are still in the pre-feasibility study stage,” said Delvirah.
