Considering Social Aspects of Geothermal Project: The Case of Social Mapping of Geothermal Project on Mount Ungaran

Abstract

The development of renewable energy is an important step to reduce dependence on fossil energy. Geothermal energy is one source of renewable energy in Indonesia. However, when a geothermal project is not managed properly, the social political and cultural conditions of the community can be a failure factor in geothermal development. Through mix methods, this research undertakes social mapping in the project of Mount Ungaran as one of the geothermal development sites. Socially the people in the project area typically are rural communities where the role of informal leaders is very influential. There are a number of communities and non-governmental organizations that disagree with the development plan due to environmental, cultural and economic damage concerns. Yet, political support was obtained from the regional government and village government.