1002 ยท Hydropower
  • Renun, Indonesia
Using Indonesia's hydropower potential

Less than six percent of Indonesia's electricity was generated from renewable energy sources in 2015, and by 2025 this figure is expected to rise to 23 percent. Our climate protection project in northern Sumatra is contributing to this by exploiting the enormous hydropower potential here.

The run-of-river power plant uses a natural height difference of 500 meters. The water comes from the rivers Lau Renun, Haporas, Bargot and Tapian Nauli and flows into Lake Toba in a volcanic crater. Two turbines with a capacity of 41 megawatts each generate clean electricity, which is fed into the Sumatra grid and improves the supply of sustainably generated electricity. To preserve the unique character of the landscape and the biodiversity of the region, all water pipes have been laid underground. Thanks to the natural gradient, only a very small reservoir was needed to accumulate the water, thus avoiding the resettlement of the local population.

How hydropower contributes to climate action

Hydropower plants use the energy of water to generate electricity. The energy is harnessed by passing water through a turbine. Under the pressure of the water, the turbine turns and transfers this energy to a generator, which converts kinetic energy into electricity. This principle applies to all types of hydroelectric power plants: from small run-of-river power plants to pumped-storage power plants on bodies of water like lakes. In many parts of the world, electricity is still primarily generated from fossil fuels. Clean hydropower can replace some of this emission-intensive energy and thus verifiably save carbon emissions. In most hydropower projects, the electricity is fed into a regional power grid, diversifying the energy supply and improving energy security in areas affected by power shortages and blackouts. Often, these projects also create jobs for the local population. Hydropower projects thus make an important contribution to clean energy supply as well as contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Hydopower projects in the ClimatePartner portfolio are registered with international standards.

Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
No PovertyThe project helps strenghten the local economy and reduce poverty.
Quality EducationThe renovation of a local school was supported by installing power cables and pipes to deduce water in the rainy season.
Gender EqualityWomen who earn money weaving "ulos" may now also work after dark and thus produce more of the traditional blankets thanks to electric light.
Affordable and Clean EnergyThe hydro power plant increases the share of renewable energy in Indonesia and improves the regional energy security.
Decent Work and Economic GrowthThe construction and operation has created new job opportunities. The company offers good working conditions and comprehensive social services. Thus the project counteracts working migration from the rural area.
Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureThe local infrastructure, including streets and bridges, has been maintained and extended thanks to the project.
Climate ActionThe project saves an average of 270,010 tons of CO2 per year.
Project standardVerified Carbon Standard (VCS)Social Carbon (SC)TechnologyHydropowerRegionRenun, IndonesiaEstimated annual emission reductions270,019 t CO2Verified byRINA Services S.p.A. (RINA)