Since 2017, Furqan Idris from PT PLN has been at the forefront of integrating renewable energy across Indonesia, a journey marked by significant collaboration with GIZ. His story illustrates the transformative power of international partnerships in the renewable energy sector. 
   
Furqan’s involvement began with small-scale projects that laid the groundwork for larger initiatives. “We started on Kaledupa Island, focusing on the basics of renewable energy and expanded to broader implementation across the archipelago,” he explains. These projects were not merely technical upgrades but also strategic moves towards sustainable development. 
 
In 2018, a significant collaboration with Udiklat Makassar and GIZ brought global experts to Sulawesi. This initiative provided local engineers, including Furqan, with advanced training in renewable energy technologies. “It was a turning point that enhanced our capabilities and confidence in handling renewable projects,” he reflects. 
 
The impact of these collaborations is evident in the comprehensive Operational and Planning study conducted recently, which provides a roadmap for integrating renewable energy into Sulawesi’s power grid. “This study is crucial—it not only outlines the technical adjustments needed but also supports our advocacy for supportive regulations for renewable energy,” Furqan adds. 
 
Furqan is optimistic about the future, anticipating continued support from GIZ. “I look forward to more robust initiatives that will solidify our progress towards Indonesia’s net-zero targets,” he says, highlighting the critical role of ongoing international support in achieving Indonesia’s energy transition goals. 
 
The GIZ team visited Furqan’s office at UP2B Minahasa at PT PLN on 29 May 2024 as part of the FGD activities related to the Study on the Integration of Electricity from Renewable Energy in the Sulawesi Electricity System Network. In North Sulawesi, the GIZ team was shown around the control center at Minahasa and the PLTS Likupang to observe the use of RE and listened to a brief presentation of the preliminary results of the further study on RE electricity integration in the Sulawesi system. 
 
This narrative showcases how targeted international cooperation and local expertise can propel a nation towards sustainable energy solutions, enhancing both the professional growth of individuals and the country’s energy policies.