NTB Proposes Renewable Energy Supply to Support Bali’s Vision of Green Tourism
Denpasar, July 16, 2026 – The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, presented a significant initiative aimed at making Bali a world-class green tourism destination by supplying electricity generated from renewable energy sources from NTB and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
The proposal was delivered during the Indonesia Solar Summit (ISS) 2026 held in Bali on July 14. This summit, organized by the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), focused on accelerating solar energy development towards achieving the national target of 100 gigawatts (GW). It brought together government officials, industry players, investors, academics, and international partners.
Collaboration Among Provinces
Governor Iqbal highlighted the potential of regional cooperation among Bali, NTB, and NTT through the Bali-NTB-NTT Regional Cooperation (KRBNN) framework as a model for clean energy development in Indonesia. “Imagine Bali becoming a 100 percent green tourist destination. Bali would no longer need to build its own power plants because its energy needs could be supplied from NTB and NTT, which have vast solar energy potential,” he said.
NTB’s Renewable Energy Potential
NTB boasts 77 dams, including 15 large ones, with great potential for floating solar photovoltaic power plants. Utilizing approximately 20 percent of the reservoir surface could produce over 500 megawatts (MW) of electricity. Combined with NTT’s energy resources, the two provinces are projected to supply around 5 to 7 GW of electricity within the next five years.
Infrastructure and Investment Initiatives
To harness this potential effectively, the NTB provincial government is advocating for the construction of a super grid interconnecting Bali, NTB, and NTT’s electrical systems. This interconnection aims to create a more reliable regional power network and significantly increase the share of renewable energy compared to other Indonesian areas.
Governor Iqbal acknowledged the need for robust investment, particularly from international sources, to build large-scale energy infrastructure. In response, the government is preparing an initiative called “NTB Capital” to boost investor confidence by facilitating permit processes and addressing social issues near investment locations.
Regulatory Suggestions
Governor Iqbal also proposed regulatory adjustments, including granting Special Economic Zones (SEZs) the ability to develop independent off-grid power systems by assigning business areas. For example, Mandalika’s high solar radiation could potentially generate approximately 100 MW of solar power.
He further suggested relaxing regulations so that renewable energy electricity is not required to be sold solely through the state electricity company (PLN) but could be marketed directly to consumers or even exported. This aligns with current projects such as Australia’s development of clean electricity exports to Singapore via underwater cables.
NTT’s Commitment
Governor of East Nusa Tenggara, Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, echoed similar support, expressing readiness to host renewable energy investments by providing assistance in permits, land provision, and nurturing a supportive social ecosystem. NTT’s solar energy potential is particularly high due to strong solar radiation and long dry seasons, especially in East and Central Sumba.
With combined capacities and appropriate infrastructure, these provinces aim not only to meet Bali’s energy needs but to become major suppliers of clean electricity across Eastern Indonesia.
“Our regional governments share a vision to develop clean energy-based areas. We welcome all partners interested in investing, and the local governments are committed to ease permits, ensure spatial certainty, mediate social aspects, and build conducive investment ecosystems,” stated Governor Melki.
This collaborative green energy initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable tourism and energy independence in Indonesia’s eastern region.
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