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KS Orka Renewables Strengthens Indonesia's Geothermal Future with Strategic Partnership with Halliburton
In the rapidly evolving landscape of renewable energy, Indonesia stands out as a global leader in geothermal potential, boasting the world's largest reserves yet utilizing only a fraction of its capacity. On January 20, 2026, a significant milestone was announced that promises to accelerate the nation's clean energy ambitions: KS Orka Renewables Pte. Ltd. entered into a strategic partnership with Halliburton, a global leader in energy services and advanced drilling technologies.
This collaboration focuses on supporting geothermal drilling operations at two key projects: PT Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power (SMGP) in North Sumatra and PT Sokoria Geothermal Indonesia (SGI) in East Nusa Tenggara. The signing ceremony, held in Jakarta, highlighted a shared commitment to operational excellence, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
Background on KS Orka Renewables and Its Geothermal Portfolio
KS Orka Renewables Pte. Ltd., operating in Indonesia since 2016, is a dedicated geothermal power developer under the Kaishan Group umbrella. The company has built a strong track record in developing high-potential geothermal fields through innovative approaches and responsible practices.
The flagship project is PT Sorik Marapi Geothermal Power (SMGP), located in Mandailing Natal Regency, North Sumatra, at the foothills of Mount Sorik Marapi along the Bukit Barisan range. This greenfield development has seen phased expansion:
- Unit 1: 45 MW (COD 2019)
- Unit 2: 45 MW (COD 2021)
- Unit 3: 50-55 MW (around 2022)
- Unit 4: Around 27-35 MW (COD 2023)
- Unit 5: 33 MW (commissioned in 2025)
This has pushed Sorik Marapi's total capacity above 200 MW, making it one of Indonesia's largest baseload clean power projects. The plant supplies reliable, low-cost electricity to the North Sumatra grid under a long-term power purchase agreement with PT PLN.
Complementing this is PT Sokoria Geothermal Indonesia (SGI) in Ende Regency, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Currently operating smaller units (5 MW Unit 1 in 2022 and 3 MW Unit 2 in 2023), with potential expansion to 30 MW, Sokoria supports local energy needs and aligns with ambitions for regions like Ende to achieve near-100% geothermal-powered electricity.
Together, these projects contribute over 208 MW in installed capacity, with SMGP alone generating more than 1 million MWh by Q3 2025. KS Orka emphasizes community benefits, including agriculture programs (corn, coffee, aquaculture), education, healthcare, and skill training for locals.
Details of the Halliburton Partnership
Under the agreement, Halliburton will deliver critical services for geothermal well construction across multiple development phases at both SMGP and SGI sites. This includes:
- Directional drilling
- Cementing services
- Drilling fluids
- Drill bits
These services prioritize HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) standards, operational reliability, and sustainable principles. The partnership merges KS Orka's expertise in cost-efficient geothermal well delivery with Halliburton's proven advanced drilling technologies, honed in challenging environments worldwide.
The collaboration aims to improve operational efficiency, optimize costs, and accelerate geothermal energy deployment as a clean, reliable baseload source. This directly supports Indonesia's Net Zero Emission target by 2060 and national goals for 75 GW of renewables in the coming years.
As Cao Kejian, President Director of KS Orka Renewables, stated: “KS Orka Renewables Pte. Ltd. welcomes the opportunity to extend its relationship with Halliburton to meet our geothermal power goals in Indonesia and help us deliver some of the lowest cost per foot geothermal wells in Indonesia.”
The signing featured key representatives from both companies, symbolizing strengthened ties in advancing Indonesia's energy transition.
Why This Partnership Matters for Indonesia's Geothermal Sector
Indonesia's geothermal resources remain underexploited despite vast potential. Challenges like complex geology, high temperatures, and corrosive fluids require cutting-edge expertise. Halliburton's involvement brings global best practices, potentially reducing drilling risks and costs while enhancing well productivity.
This deal builds on existing successes. KS Orka has consistently expanded capacity, reduced electricity costs in regions like North Sumatra, and earned awards for safety and community development. The partnership reinforces responsible development, creating jobs, boosting local economies, and reinforcing energy security.
As Indonesia pushes toward a higher renewable mix (targeting 44% by 2030), initiatives like this are crucial. Geothermal offers stable, 24/7 power unlike intermittent solar or wind, making it ideal for baseload needs.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Energy Future
The KS Orka-Halliburton partnership is more than a contract it's a step toward engineering a greener Indonesia. By combining local commitment with international technology, it paves the way for faster, more efficient geothermal expansion.
For communities near Sorik Marapi and Sokoria, it means continued benefits from clean energy projects. Nationally, it advances energy independence and climate goals. Globally, it showcases how strategic collaborations can unlock renewable potential in resource-rich nations.
As KS Orka continues "Engineering the Future," this alliance positions Indonesia as a geothermal powerhouse. Stay tuned for updates on drilling progress and new milestones in these exciting projects.
Source: KS ORKA
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