Sorik Marapi geothermal plant cooperates on gas leak investigation
Unit 1 of Sorik Marapi geothermal plant, North Sumatra, Indonesia (source: KS Orka Renewables)
Alexander Richter
14 Mar 2022
PT Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power reports that there was no H2S gas leak from recent well tests, yet supports the investigation by EBTKE and local police.
Following reports of the alleged H2S gas leak at the Sorik Marapi geothermal project, PT Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power (SMGP) ensures no H2S gas leak from the AAE-05 well test.
The internal investigation remains concluded that there was no H2S gas leak during the AAE-05 well testing, which was suspected of causing health issues for the people in the Sibanggor Julu village. Based on the latest monitoring, no more residents are inpatients at the local hospital. SMGP is committed to always providing support to the community, including medical assistance, so a release by the company.
Currently, a joint team of the Directorate General of New, Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) and the North Sumatra Regional Police Forensic Laboratory is underway, in parallel with the coordination with Mandailing Natal Regency Leadership Coordination Forum. The team also conducts an assessment on the potential of other H2S sources in the area adjacent to the working site. SMGP continues to provide full support to the investigation.
Commencing comprehensive coordination on 10 March 2022 with the Governor of North Sumatra and other relevant stakeholders, SMGP supports the North Sumatra Province and the Mandailing Natal Regency authorities to temporarily cease the AAE-05 well testing until the completion of the investigation. Meanwhile, other operational activities, adhering to the EBTKE recommendation, run as usual.
SMGP will always follow the Standard Operating Procedure for all operational activities, including well testing, and taking into account the rigorous reviews by EBTKE. SMGP continues working with local stakeholders for a more comprehensive mitigation plan regarding potential social issues. For further information, please e-mail us through corporate.communications@ksorka.com
PT Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power (SMGP) is the legal holder of the right to manage and develop geothermal resources in Sorik Marapi – Roburan – Sampuraga Geothermal Work Area in Mandailing Natal, North Sumatra. SMGP obtained Geothermal Business Permit in 2010 and Geothermal Permit since 2015, covering an area of 62,900 HA and potential geothermal resources up to 240 MW. In 2016, KS Orka Renewables Pte. Ltd. acquired 95% of PT SMGP shares from its previous sponsor. Until now, PT SMGP has achieved Commercial Operating Date (COD) for Unit I of 45 MW in 2019 and Unit II of 45 MW in 2021.
