In the heart of East Kalimantan, Indonesia is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine urban sustainability with the establishment of its new capital, Ibu Kota Negara (IKN), translated as the National Capital City. This isn’t just another city; it’s a blank canvas for pioneering Net Zero Energy (NZE) standards, a first for Indonesia. The government’s initiative, as explored in a recent study published in ‘RUAS’ (Journal of Urban and Architectural Studies), presents a unique opportunity to reshape urban development policies and the green building sector.
Resinthia Rachmanda, the lead author of the study, emphasizes the significance of this project. “IKN is not just about relocating the capital; it’s about setting a new benchmark for sustainable urban development,” she says. The study, based on a descriptive qualitative method and literature review, delves into the evolution of Indonesia’s urban development policies towards NZE standards.
The Indonesian government’s shift from previous policies to the NZE framework is a complex process involving public sector reforms, policy and regulation reform, implementation, and challenges. Rachmanda’s research highlights the early stages of NZE adoption on a national scale within Indonesia’s unique socio-political context. The success of IKN is crucial, not only for demonstrating the feasibility of NZE nationwide but also for its potential commercial impacts on the energy sector.
The NZE standards imply a significant reduction in energy consumption and a shift towards renewable energy sources. This transition could open up new markets for energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy providers. Moreover, the green building sector is expected to see a boost, with increased demand for sustainable construction materials and practices.
However, the path to NZE is not without its challenges. Rachmanda points out that the execution of IKN should be neutral and free from any political intentions to ensure its citizen-centric purpose is not obscured. This underscores the need for transparent and inclusive policy-making processes.
The IKN case study offers valuable insights into the future of urban planning and building. It serves as a pilot project for achieving NZE, and its success could pave the way for similar initiatives worldwide. As Rachmanda’s research suggests, the journey towards NZE is complex and multifaceted, but the potential benefits for the environment, the economy, and society at large are substantial.
In the words of Rachmanda, “IKN is more than just a city; it’s a statement of intent, a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation.” As the world watches, Indonesia’s bold experiment in urban sustainability could very well shape the future of the energy sector and urban development. The study, published in ‘RUAS’, provides a comprehensive overview of this transformative journey, offering valuable insights for professionals in the field.