PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with PT Timas Suplindo for the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation (EPCI) of the West Natuna Transportation System (WNTS) gas pipeline to Pemping Island, Batam.
This milestone strengthens PLN EPI’s efforts to ensure a reliable natural gas supply for Indonesia’s national electricity system, particularly in Batam and surrounding regions. The project is a strategic bridge supporting the transition to natural gas-based clean energy while enhancing national energy security.
Strategic Importance
Erma Melina Sarahwati, PLN EPI’s Director of Gas and Fuel, highlighted that the WNTS–Pemping pipeline is a key initiative for expanding national natural gas infrastructure. She noted:
“The WNTS-Pemping gas pipeline will be a crucial bridge in supporting the transition to clean energy based on natural gas, while strengthening national energy security. It will also be the only pipeline connecting gas sources in Natuna to the domestic market.”
Erma added that the project is highly complex, covering offshore and onshore engineering, procurement, construction, and installation, while integrating with existing oil and gas infrastructure. She emphasized the challenges posed by high-risk sea and land areas and expressed hope that the project will be completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
Partnership and Readiness
PLN EPI praised PT Timas Suplindo for its commitment throughout the procurement process and hopes that the Contract Discussion Agreement (CDA) and final contract can be completed swiftly, allowing immediate project execution.
Sulianto Entong, President Director of PT Timas Suplindo, reaffirmed his company’s commitment to high safety standards, efficiency, and professionalism throughout all project stages. He emphasized that Timas possesses a large-capacity installation vessel, advanced equipment and software, and experienced in-house experts, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery at competitive costs.
“We understand that time is crucial. Therefore, we will ensure that the entire process runs effectively to complete the project on schedule,” Sulianto said.
Government Oversight and Local Benefits
Anggawira, Expert Staff to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources for Oil and Gas Infrastructure Monitoring and Evaluation, highlighted the collaboration as a synergy between state-owned enterprises and national businesses, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to strengthen national energy security.
“The project is being carried out professionally and transparently, with measurable KPIs. We also aim to involve local entrepreneurs and workers in Batam so that the economic benefits are directly felt by the community,” Anggawira said.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication among all parties due to the dynamic nature of the project:
“Everyone here is not just a project giver or recipient but a team working together to ensure the project runs smoothly and brings significant benefits to the nation.”
The WNTS–Pemping pipeline represents a key step in Indonesia’s natural gas-based energy transition, strengthening energy security while promoting economic development in Batam and beyond.