Gorontalo. Gorontalo Sejahtera Mining (GSM) recently secured a massive electricity supply from the state-run utility firm PLN to back its mining operations.

GSM is a subsidiary of gold miner Merdeka Gold Resources (MGR) that is involved in the Pani Gold project. The electricity supply amounts to 30 million volt-amperes (VA).

MGR and GSM President Director Boyke Poerbaya Abidin said that PLN's electricity supply could help boost the company's production operations.

"Construction of the 30-million-VA connection began in January 2025. Within 10 months, 38 towers were successfully built, and today the electricity is operational, three months ahead of schedule," Boyke said during the inauguration ceremony.

Boyke also welcomed the early completion of the electricity connection.

"PLN responded to this challenge with full sincerity, and we are grateful that this acceleration was realized on target as a tangible demonstration of our commitment and collaboration," Boyke said.

Pohuwato Regent Saipul A Mbuinga said that electricity supply was not only key in the mining industry's operations in Gorontalo. However, it can play a significant role in creating a sustainable impact on the regional economy and local communities.

"The electricity connection not only boosts company productivity, but also has a domino effect on improving community welfare and increasing local revenue, starting with the access of electricity to concession areas," Pohuwatu said.

PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo said that the company remained committed to providing a reliable electricity supply to all customers, including the mining sector. This aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's goal of boosting the downstream industry development. PLN has built a 150-kilovolt (kV) Marisa substation (extension) and the 26.6-kilometer 150-kV Marisa High Voltage Overhead Line (SUTT) network. Plans are underway to build a second line bay.