The Indonesia–Switzerland Hydropower Conference 2025 concluded in Jakarta with a reaffirmed commitment from both countries to strengthen cooperation on sustainable hydropower development.
Held under the theme “Uniting Forces to Power Sustainable Growth,” the event brought together government officials, hydropower industry representatives, international organizations, and academic institutions from Indonesia and Switzerland. Discussions focused on accelerating clean energy deployment and enhancing innovation and investment in Indonesia’s hydropower sector.
Speakers emphasized Indonesia’s significant untapped hydropower potential and its role in meeting national renewable energy and decarbonization goals. Sessions addressed policy and regulatory changes needed to accelerate project development.
The conference featured Swiss technological solutions including real-time monitoring tools, predictive maintenance systems, small-scale hydro innovations, and hybrid hydro-battery systems. Presentations included case studies demonstrating practical applications in both countries.
Participants also examined the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS) and its role in aligning projects with global ESG benchmarks, reducing development risks, and boosting investor confidence.
The role of pumped storage hydropower (PSH) in supporting energy transition was discussed, with Switzerland’s Nant de Drance station highlighted as a model. Indonesian stakeholders provided updates on local PSH initiatives.
Other discussions covered planning and implementation of large-scale hydropower projects, including their role in water management, agriculture, flood control, and climate resilience.
“This conference has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing between Indonesia and Switzerland on hydropower development,” said H.E. Olivier Zehnder, Ambassador of Switzerland to Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and ASEAN.
Switzerland generates about 60% of its electricity from hydropower, making it the country’s main domestic energy source. Swiss companies are recognized for expertise in pumped storage systems, high-efficiency turbines, control systems, environmental monitoring, and smart grid technology.
The conference was organized by the Embassy of Switzerland in Indonesia, in collaboration with the International Hydropower Association (IHA), Indonesian Hydropower Association (INAHA), Indonesian Hydropower Operators Association (APPLTA), PT PLN (Persero), and the KADIN Indonesia–Switzerland Bilateral Committee.
Expert speakers included representatives from Swiss institutions such as EPFL Lausanne, HES-SO Valais-Wallis, SECO, and companies like Carpi Tech and Andritz Hydro, as well as Indonesian and ASEAN entities including PLN, Poso Energy, and Sarawak Energy.
“IHA was honoured to be part of this event, highlighting key areas for future collaboration. Our commitment is not only to support Indonesia’s sustainable hydropower ambitions but also to help sustainable hydropower grow worldwide,” said Karen Atkinson, Vice Chair of the International Hydropower Association (IHA).
