Wind power plants (PLTB) harness the power of wind to generate electricity without producing air pollution or carbon emissions that worsen climate change. This technology is no longer just a dream or a future concept—PLTBs are already operating in various countries, including Indonesia, and continue to grow as part of the clean energy solution.
With the increasing use of wind energy, we can reduce dependence on fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which have long been the primary sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, using renewable energy like wind power helps create new jobs in the green energy sector and enhances future energy security.
Although challenges remain, such as the need for locations with sufficient wind speeds and high initial costs, technological advancements continue to make PLTBs more efficient and affordable. If further developed, wind energy can become a key solution in mitigating climate change and creating a cleaner, more sustainable world.
What is a Wind Power Plant (PLTB)?
A wind power plant, also known as a wind farm, is a collection of wind turbines placed in a specific location to generate electricity. Wind turbines capture kinetic energy from the wind and convert it into electrical energy. The electricity produced can then be used to meet the needs of households, businesses, and even entire communities.
History and Development of the Wind Power Industry
The use of wind energy has existed for a long time, but the modern wind power industry began to grow rapidly after the oil crisis of the 1970s. This crisis led many countries, especially developed ones, to seek alternative energy sources that are more environmentally friendly and less dependent on fossil fuels.
Since then, wind turbine technology has continued to advance. Turbines have become more efficient at generating electricity, while production costs have decreased. As a result, wind energy is no longer just an experiment but has become an essential part of renewable energy use in many countries. Nations such as Denmark, Germany, and the United States are among the leaders in utilizing wind power on a large scale
Major Wind Power Projects Worldwide
China has the world’s largest wind energy project, the Gansu Wind Power Plant, with a capacity of over 10,000 MW. This project is one of the most ambitious wind energy developments globally, consisting of thousands of wind turbines spread across Gansu Province, an area with strong and stable winds.
The United Kingdom is known for having the largest offshore wind power capacity in the world. One of its flagship projects is the Hornsea Wind Farm, located in the North Sea. This project has a capacity of over 1,200 MW and can supply electricity to more than one million homes.
With strong and stable wind conditions in the North Sea, this project can optimally utilize natural resources. Hornsea serves as proof that offshore wind power can be a primary solution in the transition to clean energy worldwide.
Wind Power Plants in Indonesia
PLTB Sidrap
Located in Watang Pulu, Sidenreng Rappang, South Sulawesi, PLTB Sidrap began operations on April 4, 2018, after 2.5 years of construction with an investment of USD 150 million. This facility has 30 turbines, each with a capacity of 2.5 MW, totaling 75 MW. The electricity generated can meet the needs of 70,000 households. This project also supports Indonesia’s target of 23% renewable energy by 2025, with 40% of its components sourced domestically, and has created 1,150 jobs.
PLTB Jeneponto
Located in Binamu, Jeneponto, South Sulawesi, PLTB Jeneponto began operations in May 2019 after two years of construction with an investment of USD 160.7 million. It consists of 20 turbines, each 133 meters tall, with a capacity of 3.6 MW, generating a total of 72 MW. This PLTB can supply electricity to 60,000 households.
The Role of Wind Power in Reducing Carbon Emissions
Wind power plants play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions for several key reasons. First, wind energy is a clean energy source that does not require fossil fuel combustion in the electricity generation process. This means no greenhouse gases are released, unlike coal or natural gas power plants.
Second, wind energy can replace electricity generated from fossil fuel sources. When wind power is integrated into the electrical grid, it reduces reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants, thereby decreasing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Additionally, wind turbines significantly contribute to carbon reduction. For instance, a single 2 MW wind turbine can prevent the release of 4,000 to 4,500 tons of carbon dioxide per year, equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 700 cars. Research also shows that increasing the use of wind and solar energy by 24-26% can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 29-34% compared to a scenario without renewable energy.
Finally, wind turbines have a short carbon payback period. All emissions generated during the turbine construction process can be offset within three to six months of operation. After this period, turbines can operate almost emission-free for the rest of their lifespan, making them one of the most effective solutions for transitioning to clean energy.
As renewable energy technology continues to evolve, there are still many challenges and opportunities to explore. From developing more efficient technology to implementing policies that support the clean energy transition, all these factors will play a role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Don’t miss our next article, which will delve deeper into innovations and strategies for achieving a carbon-free world!
References:
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Holttinen, H., Kiviluoma, J., Carla, C., & John, M. (2014). Estimating the Reduction of Generating System CO2 Emissions Resulting from Significant Wind Energy Penetration. 13th Wind Integration Workshop. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265685383_Estimating_the_Reduction_of_Generating_System_CO2_Emissions_Resulting_from_Significant_Wind_Energy_Penetration.
Pambudi, N. A., Ulfa, D. K., Nanda, I. R., Gandidi, I. M., Wiyono, A., Biddinika, M. K., Rudiyanto, B., & Saw, L. H. (2025). The Future of Wind Power Plants in Indonesia: Potential, Challenges, and Policies. Sustainability, 17(3), 1312. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17031312.
Prastyo, E.A. (2025). 5 Proyek Besar Energi terbarukan yang Sukses di Dunia. Retrieved from https://www.edukasielektronika.com/2025/01/5-proyek-besar-energi-terbarukan-yang-sukses-di-dunia.html (Accessed: February 9th, 2025).
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