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From Refining to Renewables: Interview with Isnanto Nugroho, Kilang Pertamina Internasional


As momentum builds toward Asia-Tech 2025 in Jakarta, we had the privilege of sitting down with Mr. Isnanto Nugroho S., Director of Business Planning and Development at Kilang Pertamina Internasional (KPI) — co-host of this year’s ASIA-TECH event.

In a thought-provoking exchange with Stefan Chapman, Vice President at Euro Petroleum Consultants, Mr. Isnanto laid out how KPI is preparing to meet Indonesia’s energy demands, while taking firm steps toward a sustainable future.

Read the key takeaway from this exclusive interview.

Mr. Isnanto Nugroho S., Director of Business Planning and Development at Kilang Pertamina Internasional

1. Energy Security Through Infrastructure

KPI is currently spearheading several National Strategic Projects including the RDMP Balikpapan and RDMP Balongan, critical to boosting national refining capacity. These projects not only serve Indonesia’s energy security goals but also reflect KPI’s commitment to collaboration, ESG integration, and responsible growth.

“We recognise the critical role of collaboration... with stakeholders including government, industry, and technology providers”, Mr. Isnanto emphasized.

2. Green Refining Milestones

KPI’s Cilacap Green Refinery (Phase 1) is a milestone for renewable fuel production in Southeast Asia. It processes 100% biofuel feedstock to produce HVO, and is also piloting SAF production using Pertamina’s proprietary catalysts.

Phase 2 will further expand capacity and flexibility by using used cooking oil (UCO), palm oil mill effluents (POME), and other challenging non-edible feedstocks.

3. Operational Excellence as a Strategic Driver

In response to a volatile global environment, KPI remains focused on operational excellence — prioritizing energy efficiency, feedstock optimization, and emissions reduction through ongoing investment and digital transformation.

“Operational excellence is the heartbeat of our business”, said Mr. Isnanto.

4. Petrochemical Diversification

With growing demand for value-added products, KPI is developing strategic petrochemical projects like the TPPI Olefin Complex, integrating refining operations with petrochemical production to boost competitiveness and environmental performance.

5. Industry Collaboration & the Role of Asia-Tech

Mr. Isnanto stressed the importance of platforms like Asia-Tech for innovation exchange and strategic alignment:

“Collaboration is not optional—it’s essential. We view events like Asia-Tech as a vital part of how KPI evolves as a future-ready energy company.”

Closing Thought:

KPI’s holistic approach—bridging infrastructure, sustainability, operational innovation, and regional cooperation—sets an important precedent for how national oil companies can lead the energy transition in emerging markets.

We’re excited to continue the conversation at Asia-Tech 2025.



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Kilang Pertamina Internasional is the official co-host of the upcoming ASIA-TECH - Asia Refining & Petrochemicals Tech Forum, taking place in Jakarta, Indonesia on 8-9 October 2025. Join Isnanto and KPI experts as they dive into key discussions on innovation and energy transition!

Or visit: europetro.com/asiatech