ASIATODAY.ID, BOGOR — The effectiveness of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs and the distribution of geothermal production bonuses in Mount Salak have come under sharp scrutiny from Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI).
During a Working Visit to the Mount Salak Geothermal Power Plant (PLTP) on Friday, November 14, 2025, legislators questioned the company’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits to Ring 1 communities and fulfilling its environmental responsibilities.
Deputy Chair of Commission XII, Putri Zulkifli Hasan, underscored that geothermal operators are obligated to ensure equitable benefits for surrounding communities.
She highlighted persistent gaps in basic services despite decades of geothermal operations in the region.
“We expect geothermal companies to deliver real benefits to nearby districts and villages. Their community empowerment and CSR programs must be strengthened and aligned with local needs,” Putri stated.
She noted that several households in the Ring 1 area still lack electricity access and proper housing—conditions that contradict the company’s commitments to inclusive development.
Beyond CSR, the Commission also questioned the transparency of geothermal production bonuses, which are legally mandated to be shared with producing regions such as Bogor and Sukabumi.
“These production bonuses must be distributed fairly, transparently, and in accordance with regulations. This is a right of the regions and their communities,” she emphasized.
Environmental Performance of PT Star Energy Geothermal Also Questioned
Commission XII member Dewi Yustisiana raised concerns over the gap between PT Star Energy Geothermal Salak Ltd’s (SEGS) environmental documents—rated Gold under Indonesia’s PROPER program—and the actual conditions reported by residents.
“The documents may look excellent, but the reality on the ground often tells a different story. That is the core issue,” Dewi said.
Residents of Kebandungan Village have long complained about road damage caused by heavy trucks and drilling activities. According to Dewi, repairs were only carried out after local protests—an approach she deemed reactive and insufficient.
Dewi further criticized the company for failing to adequately explain its waste management processes, including gas emissions, drilling mud, noise, and vibration impacts.
“These operational impacts were not clearly explained. Geothermal activities can produce multiple types of waste, and proper management is essential,” she warned.
Concerns Over Water Availability and Limited Agricultural CSR
Dewi also highlighted the potential impact of geothermal operations on local water availability—a critical resource for communities relying heavily on agriculture.
“Water is essential for both consumption and irrigation. Yet CSR programs supporting agriculture only began in the last three years. This is far from optimal,” she noted.
She urged PT SEGS to reform its CSR approach to ensure that the most affected communities—particularly those in Ring 1—receive meaningful and relevant support.
“CSR should not be treated as a mere administrative requirement. It must genuinely strengthen the local economy,” she added.
DPR Calls for Better Governance and Community Responsiveness
Commission XII stressed that geothermal development must align with Indonesia’s national energy transition goals while ensuring social equity for surrounding communities.
“We want to ensure that the energy transition is fair and that local residents truly benefit from geothermal operations,” Putri concluded. (AT Network)
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