The climate crisis is no longer a future threat but a reality we must face today. A report by the International Energy Agency (IEA, 2023) stated that more than 73% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from the energy sector. In Indonesia, the energy sector contributes more than 60% of national emissions, with a heavy reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas.
In Indonesia, the energy sector contributes over 60% of national emissions, while our energy mix remains highly limited and still relies heavily on coal, oil, and natural gas. Despite this, Indonesia possesses abundant renewable energy potential; ranging from solar, wind, to hydropower, yet its utilization remains minimal and far below expectations.
Energy transition means shifting from fossil-based dirty energy to clean, renewable energy. This step is crucial because reducing emissions can mitigate global warming, promote social justice—as the impacts of the energy crisis are most felt by vulnerable groups—and ultimately enhance Indonesia’s economic resilience in the future.
Unfortunately, the journey towards clean energy still faces many challenges, from policy barriers to industrial structures to low public awareness.
However, there is still hope from the role of young people in welcoming change. Indonesia’s younger generation is now increasingly concerned about environmental issues and social justice. A survey by Greenpeace Indonesia in 2024 shows that the majority of young people are urging the government to transition to a green economy. However, there is still a knowledge gap regarding the challenges of renewable energy transition. According to a survey report by the Indonesian Parliamentary Center (2023), only 12.4% of young people in the Jakarta metropolitan area are aware that the government is discussing the Renewable Energy Bill.
This is where Ruang Belajar comes in. On Friday, August 15, 2025, Enter Nusantara successfully held an online Ruang Belajar: Understanding What Energy Transition Is event via Zoom. The event was attended by more than 20 young participants from various backgrounds, all with the same passion: to gain a deeper understanding of clean energy and the role of young people in addressing the climate crisis.
The event featured two keynote speakers, Naba Hudani (Community Partnership) and Kymad Kiki (Renewable Energy Technician). Both emphasized that energy transition is not only about technology but also social justice.
“The impact of the energy crisis is felt most acutely by vulnerable groups. Therefore, young people need to be actively involved to ensure that the energy transition is fair and leaves no one behind,” said Naba.
Participants were also encouraged to understand the basic concepts of energy, its connection to global warming, and the challenges of energy policy in Indonesia. Through case studies and group discussions, participants developed ideas to drive change in their respective communities.
Participants’ enthusiasm was evident during the question-and-answer session and discussions. Many of them connected the material to their daily experiences, from household electricity use to the importance of promoting clean energy at the local level.
Through this activity, we hope that the Learning Space can serve as an entry point for young people to understand energy issues while also becoming part of the solution to the climate crisis.
With a spirit of collaboration, young people are not just bystanders in the larger issue of energy transition but drivers of change toward a fair, clean, and sustainable energy system.
