Energy collaboration towards a low-emission Bali

Bali, famous as a global tourist spot, is dealing with serious challenges due to its heavy use of fossil fuels. Based on data from the Bali Provincial Environmental Agency in 2023, it shows that emissions from fossil-based electricity in Bali hit a whopping 4,492 Gg CO₂e, or 34% of its total greenhouse gas emissions. The effects are becoming hard to ignore, with erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and other ecological risks threatening the sustainability of both its tourism and ecosystem.

Sanur has seen pretty high consumption of fossil fuel-powered electricity, as the area is bustling with various activities such as tourism, fishing, traditional irrigation (subak), markets, and waste management. If Bali let it continue to happen, it would be difficult for the island to keep its tourist appeal and the quality of life for its residents.

To address this challenge, HSBC has collaborated with WRI Indonesia and the Baga Utsaha Padruwen Traditional Village (BUPDA) in Intaran Bali launched two programmes in 2024: Bali Clean Energy Village and Bali Youth for Clean Energy. With a focus on Sanur, these programmes aim to create a low-emission tourism destination by optimising Bali’s renewable energy potential.

Sanur, with high intensity of sunshine, is a perfect spot for installing solar panels. WRI Indonesia, in collaboration with BTI Energy—a local partner experienced in renewable energy—has conducted studies in the field and set up the technology at various key locations. The energy solutions they rolled out included everything from on-grid solar panels connected to the PLN electricity grid to off-grid systems, as well as solar water pumps and solar-powered streetlights.

Thanks to these efforts, both locals and tourists are reaping the rewards of clean energy while receiving a hands-on education about why shifting to renewable sources is so important. HSBC’s contribution to the Sanur coastal area isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about driving sustainable solutions, creating jobs, and improving the overall welfare of people living there.

But of course, energy transition should be more than just technology application. Bali needs human resources ready to face the rapid development of renewable energy. This is where the Bali Youth for Clean Energy programme comes into play.

This programme comes from the idea that a shift to renewable energy needs the know-how to analyse nature, understand the tech, and apply it. With technology changing all the time, it is essential to equip the young folks in Bali with the latest skills to stay relevant and competitive in today’s fast-paced world.

By teaming up with different partners like WRI Indonesia, Bio Solar Farms, Kalpataru Garden, the Bali Provincial Education, Youth, and Sports Office, and the Bali Provincial Manpower, Energy, and Mineral Resources Office, this programme provided technical training to 747 students from eight schools across five regencies and cities in Bali.

High school and vocational school students are being encouraged to get hands-on with clean energy practices, helping them become experts that can support Bali’s Net Zero 2045 agenda. By giving vocational students the know-how and skills in clean energy technology, this programme hopes to raise a new generation of eco-conscious individuals ready to support Bali’s Net Zero goals and push for greener policies.

Bali is not just looking to be a popular tourist spot; it wants to be a hub of renewable energy innovation. As it ramps up its clean energy infrastructure with Bali Clean Energy Village and cultivates talents through Bali Youth for Clean Energy, the island’s journey toward a low-emission future is becoming increasingly evident.

Watch the video about Bali Clean Energy Village and Bali Youth for Clean Energy programs.