Publications

In 2008, the first Coal Bed Methane (CBM) PSC was signed in Indonesia. To date, 54 CBM PSCs have been awarded to explore and develop CBM Block in Indonesia. Twelve years later, only one PSC has submitted a Plan of Development but has not yet produced gas commercially. Most CBM PSCs have been struggling during the 10 years’ exploration period and some may receive extensions for 3 years under specific conditions. The lack of integrated authorities’ approval in the overlay of coal mining and natural gas production areas has become a great obstacle for CBM Development. Besides that, the government regulations in CBM activities have defects in PSC contract terms that may lead marginal economic value for contractors, especially due to high investment during the early development (C. Irawan, 2017). On the other hand, drilling regulations, Pipe Classing standards and Testing Standards following the Oil and Gas standards are too expensive for CBM Investment. According to our observations, CBM Regulations in Indonesia should be modified starting from the Exploration period, Production Sharing Contract Terms and Standard Operating Procedures to suit Indonesian CBM characteristics. Good coordination within government departments is a must for the success of CBM Exploration and Development.