Masdar, PLN NP agree on 500-MW expansion of ASEAN floating solar park

September 26 (Renewables Now) - Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC, better known as Masdar, has signed a deal with PLN Nusantara Power (PLN NP) for a 500-MW expansion of what already is shaping up to be the largest floating solar plant in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The agreement concerns Phase II of the Cirata project in West Java, Indonesia, which is expected to reach 145 MW of capacity this year. The initial phase too was developed by Masdar and PLN NP, then called PT PJB, a subsidiary of Indonesia’s state electricity company PT PLN.

The expansion of the facility by an additional 500 MW has been enabled by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing’s recent regulatory change that allows up to 20% of water coverage for renewable energy uses, according to the announcement.

“Within the key strategic markets of Southeast Asia and Indonesia, Masdar is building on our productive partnership with PLN group to grow renewable energy capacity and support Indonesia’s ambitious net-zero objectives ahead of COP28 and beyond,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of the UAE-based company.

Masdar is also active in Indonesia’s geothermal sector through a strategic investment in Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE).