Will Oil Run Out by 2052? Stay Calm! Indonesia Has the Solution

The world’s crude oil supply is on the brink of a crisis. With consumption reaching approximately 35 billion barrels annually, a Stanford University study predicts that global oil reserves will be depleted by 2052. This situation has triggered a frantic race for new reserves—often leading to geopolitical tensions, such as the disputes in the South China Sea—while simultaneously exacerbating the climate crisis. Mass fossil fuel consumption releases 36.8 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year, serving as the primary driver of global warming.

Recognizing this urgency, energy giants like Pertamina are aggressively developing New and Renewable Energy (EBT). As a State-Owned Enterprise (BUMN) responsible for the nation’s energy supply, Pertamina is fully committed to EBT—not just to safeguard national energy security, but as a fundamental solution for decarbonization.

Pertamina Charges Ahead with Bioenergy Innovations

Pertamina is actively developing a diverse bioenergy portfolio to ensure a cleaner and more sustainable future:

• Biodiesel: Indonesia is already a world leader in biodiesel through the B35 mandate, with plans moving toward B40 and B50. By utilizing palm oil, this innovation saves billions in foreign exchange and creates millions of jobs in the agricultural sector.

• Bioethanol: Pertamina is focusing on bioethanol as a gasoline alternative. Products like Pertamax Green 95 (containing 5% ethanol/E5) are already being distributed. Derived from sugarcane or the abundant sap of sugar palm trees (pohon aren), bioethanol reduces emissions by utilizing the natural plant carbon cycle.

• Biomass: Pertamina is transforming agricultural waste—such as palm shells and Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB)—into electricity or liquid fuels. This supports a circular economy and provides a better waste management solution for the plantation industry.

• Bioavtur (SAF): For the aviation sector, Pertamina is developing plant-based jet fuel. This is a significant milestone in reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry, one of the world’s largest emission contributors.

The Solution to the End of the Oil Era

Pertamina’s strategic steps serve as evidence of Indonesia’s resolve in facing the depletion of oil and the climate crisis. By investing in biodiesel, bioethanol, biomass, and bioavtur, Indonesia is not only securing its own energy future but also positioning itself as a key player in global clean energy development. This is the path toward a greener, independent, and sustainable future.