Panel session (2) with panelists on FGD Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Policy and Legal Framework Lesson-learned
On February 26, 2025, Resilience Development Initiative (RDI), represented by the RDFact team Baihaqi Muhammad, Evita Mahar Dewi, Artyasari Prihatdini, Fahmi Akbar, and Jasmin Anizah collaborated with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) to host a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled "Lesson Learned: RDF Policy and Legal Framework" in Jakarta. This discussion is part of the RDFact project, officially known as Optimization of Refuse-Derived Fuels to Decarbonize the Energy Sector and Achieve NDC Targets in Indonesia, funded by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water.
Stakeholders Participating in the FGD Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Policy and Legal Framework Lesson-learned
This FGD aimed to assess and validate the regulatory landscape and challenges in RDF development to establish a more accommodating policy framework. The event featured two panel sessions followed by a discussion, covering eight key topics:
- RDF Utilization Target
- Action or Development Plan of RDF
- Financial Scheme and Incentives for RDF
- Technical Assistance for Local Government
- Technical Specification for RDF
- RDF Administrative Procedure, Governance, and Permits
- Operational, Distribution, and Supply Chain of RDF
- Mainstreaming the Use of RDF in Industry
The event was opened by Edi Wibowo (Director of Bioenergy, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources) and Elisabeth Rianawati (Director of Resilience Development Initiative). They highlighted the Indonesian government's commitment to achieving a 43.5% decarbonization target by 2060 or earlier, in line with the 2025-2030 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN). The bioenergy sector contributed 70% to the 2024 energy mix, and efforts are continuously being pushed forward, including through the revision of Presidential Regulation No. 35. RDF plays a crucial role in waste management and bioenergy development, with output products such as BBJP and BBSS, for renewable energy expansion in various regions. Additionally, the RDF discussion was designed as a two-way exchange, allowing for feedback and improvements. RDI also offers training programs on social protection adaptation and disaster risk management, available both online and offline.
Panel session (1) FGD Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Policy and Legal Framework Lesson-learned
In the first session, four main topics were discussed: RDF Utilization Target; Action or Development of RDF; Financial Scheme & Incentives for RDF; and RDF Administrative Procedures, Governance, and Permits. These topics were addressed by four panelists: Trois Dilisusendi, S.T., M.T. (Coordinator of Bioenergy Investment and Cooperation), Agunan Paulus Samosir (Fiscal Policy Agency), Ronni Wahyu Wibowo (Directorate of Waste Management, Ministry of Environment), and Nur Aisyah Nasution (National Development Planning Agency). The session was moderated by Hoferdy Zawani (Deputy Director of RDI).
A more practical discussion with industry took place in the second session, focusing on Operational, Distribution, and Supply Chain of RDF; Technical Assistance for Local Government; Technical Specification for RDF; and Mainstreaming the Use of RDF in Industry. The discussion featured a panel consisting of Arindita Dessi Permatasari (Sub-Directorate of Technical Planning, Ministry of Public Works), Dr. Verina Wargadalam (Chair of Technical Committee 27-10), Angga Kusuma (PT Indocement), and Muhammad Abdul Aziz (Center for Green Industry). The session was moderated by Rr. Widiartyasari Prihatdini (Renewable Energy & Emission Reduction Research Officer, RDI).
Discussion between panelist (Angga Kusuma - PT Indocement) and participant
During the discussion sessions, stakeholders highlighted several issues regarding the implementation of Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF), emphasizing challenges in business models and regulatory frameworks. A key takeaway was that RDF should not be seen as a direct source of profit but rather as an environmental solution that requires clear regulations and financial mechanisms. While the cement industry has integrated RDF into its operations, supply constraints remain a significant challenge, along with barriers to expanding adoption in other industries. To accelerate RDF implementation, stakeholders have emphasized key initiatives such as establishing an RDF Learning Center, developing a comprehensive RDF roadmap, and revising existing regulations to create a more supportive framework.
The FGD served as a platform for various government bodies to exchange ideas and shape a shared vision for RDF implementation. The discussion outcomes will form the foundation of a policy brief currently being developed by RDI researchers. As part of the RDFact project, this FGD aims to strengthen national capacity for RDF adoption, reflecting RDI’s strong commitment to supporting Indonesia’s energy transition and emission reduction efforts.
