Indonesia: JPIC SVD rejects Geothermal Projects in Flores, citing Human Rights violations

The Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Commission of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Province Ende has formally rejected the construction of geothermal power plants (PLTP) in Mataloko (Ngada) and Sokoria (Ende), Flores, Indonesia.

JPIC SVD Ende sent a letter to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), regional governments, and national authorities on March 9, 2025, in Maumere. In it, they expressed deep concern about geothermal projects in Flores that violate human rights, damage the environment, and don't involve enough community consultation.

"We have closely observed the government's efforts to develop geothermal plants across Flores," the statement reads. "While these projects claim to produce clean energy and contribute to sustainable electricity supply, they must not come at the expense of the fundamental rights of local communities." 

JPIC SVD Ende assessed the projects using the Litmus Test, which examines four principles: do no harm, poverty alleviation, respect for local communities as rights-holders, and sustainability.

The commission found major shortcomings in public consultations, particularly in ensuring informed consent from affected communities. "For a project of this scale, transparency and community involvement are crucial," JPIC SVD Ende emphasized. 

However, many residents, particularly in Mataloko, remained unaware of the project’s full impact. "Exploration began as early as 1984, yet community consultations were only held in 2000 and later in 2021. The statement revealed that many locals still lacked proper information and faced pressure to sell their land at unfair prices.

In Sokoria, allegations of intimidation by security forces further raised concerns. "Residents testified that traditional leaders (Mosalaki) were forcibly taken to military headquarters and coerced into signing land agreements without understanding the details," the report noted. "Such actions undermine the basic rights of Indigenous communities and set a dangerous precedent for future projects."

JPIC SVD Ende also detailed the severe environmental and social consequences resulting from the projects. In Mataloko, residents reported health issues, damage to homes, and loss of agricultural productivity, particularly for coffee, cloves, avocados, and vegetables. 

In Sokoria, the Lowo Tonggo spring, a key water source, was contaminated by geothermal wastewater. "Despite agreements for alternative water supplies, PT Sokoria Geothermal Indonesia (SGI) failed to fulfill its commitment," JPIC SVD Ende stated. 

Furthermore, the Commission highlighted growing land disputes and inadequate compensation for displaced residents, leading to tensions within the community.

Legal violations were another critical issue outlined in the statement. JPIC SVD Ende argued that the projects contradict several Indonesian laws, including Article 28 of the 1945 Constitution on Human Rights, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, and Law No. 32/2009 on Environmental Protection.

"No development project, no matter how beneficial, should violate the fundamental rights of its people," the commission insisted.

JPIC SVD Ende and Divine Word Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden of Ende Archdiocese made a strong request to the authorities: they wanted the geothermal project permits in Mataloko and Sokoria to be taken away right away.

The statement was also sent to President Prabowo Subianto, head of the Indonesian Parliament (DPR), the National Human Rights Commission, and regional government leaders. 

"We urge all stakeholders, including civil society organizations and environmental advocates, to stand with affected communities in their fight for justice, environmental sustainability, and the protection of human dignity," the statement concluded.