(malangkota.go.id) – Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) of the Republic of Indonesia Arcandra Tahar symbolically inaugurated the use of Solar Powered Street Lighting (PJU-TS) in Malang City, Wednesday (16/10/2019). Currently, PJU-TS lamps in Malang City have been installed at 150 points and will continue to increase, because there is a budget sharing for the addition with the local government.
Nationally, Arcandra revealed that 22.550 lamps have been installed in 31 provinces and the installation of these lamps is prioritized in public facilities such as mosques, churches, city halls and stations.
"Starting in 2020, the government through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will install it at 50 thousand points every year," he added.
The Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources said that in addition to being more effective and easier to maintain, the use of solar-powered lamps will also save the state and regional budgets significantly.
"The target of installing 50 thousand points each year is possible to increase, depending on the state budget," he continued.
Arcandra also encouraged every local government to support this program and allocate a budget for additional lighting installations. "In addition to the free energy source and easy maintenance, this energy source will be an alternative to saving natural resources," added Arcandra.
In an effort to save budget and natural resources, in the future the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will continue to seek new renewable energy sources so that they can meet the various needs of the community.
"No less important, all elements of society must participate in maintaining and feel ownership, such as this solar-powered street lighting, because all of that is also for the community," he added.
Meanwhile, Malang Deputy Mayor Sofyan Edi Jarwoko admitted that he was very pleased with the inauguration and installation of 150 PJU-TS in Malang City. According to him, currently Malang City really needs lights like this. "Especially in a number of crowded areas, in addition to facilitating community activities, it will also help reduce crime rates," he said.
On the other hand, the man who is often called Bung Edi said that this program is one form of synergy between the central and regional governments for the welfare of the community. "We certainly support this program, and if possible it will continue to be added, because Malang City has five sub-districts and 57 villages," he explained.
