Indonesia is advancing plans to develop its first coal-based dimethyl ether (DME) production facility, with interest from a joint venture between European and Korean investors, as well as Chinese technology providers. Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that the government is currently reviewing feasibility studies and technological proposals from both groups, noting that the Chinese and European technologies appear more efficient and better suited to Indonesia’s needs. The project, scheduled to begin construction in 2026, will utilize low-calorie coal—an abundant domestic resource—and aims to replace imported liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) with locally produced DME. The initiative, originally discussed during President Joko Widodo’s administration, stalled after U.S.-based Air Products & Chemical Inc. withdrew. Now, PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is preparing to resume the project with Chinese partners. Minister Bahlil emphasized that infrastructure is ready and the technology has improved significantly, making the project more viable. DME, a clean-burning gas used as an alternative to LPG and diesel, also serves as an aerosol propellant and chemical feedstock. The government sees this as a strategic move to reduce LPG imports and promote coal downstreaming, with Danantara set to lead the partnership. Final decisions on technology and investment partners are expected soon.Source: https://ekonomi.bisnis.com/read/20251028/44/1924079/konsorsium-korea-eropa-mau-investasi-teknologi-di-proyek-dme-indonesia (ICE GIACARTA)

Fonte notizia: Bisnis.com, 28 October 2025