Ecobiz.asia – Indonesia is preparing to pilot a Hydrogen-Diesel Dual Fuel (H2 DDF) bus as part of its efforts to introduce hydrogen into the transportation sector and accelerate the decarbonization of road transport.
The converted bus is expected to be unveiled at the Global Hydrogen Ecosystem Summit (GHES) 2026 after completing technical testing and vehicle homologation.
The initiative moved forward with a joint survey of the pilot vehicle conducted by state-owned bus operator DAMRI in Jakarta on Tuesday (July 14, 2026), marking an early step in developing Indonesia’s hydrogen ecosystem.
Senda Hurmuzan Kanam, Director of New Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources’ Directorate General of New, Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE), said Indonesia’s energy transition extends beyond diversifying energy sources to accelerating the adoption of low-emission technologies.
“Indonesia’s energy transition is not only about diversifying energy sources, but also about embracing visionary clean technologies. As outlined in the National Hydrogen Strategy and the National Hydrogen and Ammonia Roadmap, hydrogen is a clean molecule that can drive decarbonization across multiple sectors,” Senda said.
He said Hydrogen-Diesel Dual Fuel technology offers a practical transition pathway because it allows existing diesel-powered vehicles to operate with a hydrogen blend without requiring fleet replacement. The approach is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining operational reliability.
The project is aligned with Indonesia’s National Hydrogen and Ammonia Roadmap (RHAN), which identifies buses and trucks among the priority sectors for hydrogen commercialization from 2030 or earlier.
To support deployment, the ministry will oversee the preparation of technical studies, a Detailed Engineering Design (DED), and the vehicle homologation process to ensure the converted bus complies with safety, environmental, and roadworthiness standards.
“As the representative of the Government of Indonesia, we fully support the development of H2 DDF conversion technology. We will facilitate the preparation of technical studies and the Detailed Engineering Design, while overseeing the homologation process so the H2 DDF bus can operate on public roads,” Senda said.
The government views the pilot project as an important step toward building a national hydrogen ecosystem involving collaboration among government agencies, state-owned enterprises, and industry partners. Officials expect the initiative to accelerate hydrogen adoption in transportation, expand the use of clean energy, and strengthen Indonesia’s energy security.
The government also sees hydrogen as a strategic solution for reducing emissions from the transport sector while supporting Indonesia’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 or earlier. ***
