Indonesia, New Zealand to co-develop geothermal energy

Indonesia and New Zealand have agreed to cooperate in developing its geothermal energy potential as an alternative renewable energy source.

New Zealand has adequate technology to utilize geothermal energy in Indonesia, according to Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Jero Wacik after accompanying President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono during a meeting with visiting New Zealand Prime Minister John Key.

"They (New Zealand) are good at their technology, particularly geothermal technology. That is what we want to benefit from," he said.

To date, there are 28 locations for potential geothermal sources agreed upon by the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry and the Forestry Ministry, he said.

In a press statement, President Yudhoyono said he discussed the planned development of geothermal energy with New Zealand`s John Key at the meeting.

"Under the cooperation in the geothermal energy, we intend to develop the energy in five to ten years. We are inviting joint investment and technical cooperation," he noted.

After holding the meeting, the two leaders witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding in the fields of manpower, environment, agriculture, and geothermal energy.

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