At present, the energy crisis in East Kalimantan is inevitable. The level of dependence on fossil energy is still high (71% fuel oil, coal 2%, and other sources 27%). Meanwhile, plans for utilizing new renewable energy and energy conservation (EBTKE) have not been effective.

On the other hand, fossil energy reserves in East Kalimantan are declining, and cannot be matched by the discovery of new reserves. The limitations of the available energy infrastructure must also be recognized as limiting people’s access to energy. The efforts of the Provincial and Regency/City Governments to meet energy needs often neglect the principle of sustainable development, even to some degree it can lead to conflict in the community.

This situation was then exacerbated by the condition where the land allotment for food crops in the RTRW (Regional Spatial Plan) of East Kalimantan was only 412,096 hectares. The allocation is very alarming when compared to the total area of 3,465,629 hectares of oil palm plantations, 5,200,000 hectares of mining areas, 1,600,000 hectares of HTI, and 4,900,000 hectares of HPH. It is undeniable, this will make hope to realize food sovereignty in East Kalimantan farther from expectations.

The Publish What You Pay Indonesia Coalition compiled position paper, in response to the energy crisis in East Kalimantan.

Energy Emergency (Corruption) in East Kalimantan from Asri Nuraeni