Policy Capacity Challenges for Renewable Energy Development in West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

West Sumatra Province already has an energy development planning document, one of which is renewable energy development. Unfortunately, four years on, the policy’s realization has not followed existing plans. Thus, this study aims to analyze the challenges of policy capacity in developing renewable energy in West Sumatra Province. This research method is qualitative with a case study approach. Furthermore, data was collected from interviews with resource persons from various parties. The results show that low analytical capacity is the main factor affecting the formulation of evidence-based policies. Low operational capacity also hinders the effectiveness of renewable energy policy implementation. Political challenges, such as changing priorities and lack of commitment, also affect renewable energy development. Lack of transparency in policy formulation leads to public resistance to renewable energy development. The study concludes that it is crucial to strengthen policy capacity and engage actors from various sectors to achieve the goal of sustainable renewable energy development and contribute to climate change mitigation globally. This article can serve as a guide for policymakers and industry in achieving ambitious renewable energy goals in the future.