Since September 2024, Yuanita Budiman has been part of Pondera’s Indonesian office, bringing her expertise in chemical engineering and her passion for renewable energy to the team. As a Renewable Energy Consultant in Indonesia, she focuses on techno-economic assessments and policy analyses to support governments and development partners in building a more sustainable future. With a strong dedication to accelerating the energy transition, particularly in rural areas, Yuanita combines her technical knowledge with real-world experience to make a meaningful impact.

A diverse background and a passion for sustainability

Yuanita’s academic background lies in chemical engineering, with a major in process plant engineering. However, her professional journey has taken her through various roles and industries. In addition to her work at Pondera, she volunteers for a local NGO that promotes sustainable development in Indonesia’s rural villages. Beyond her professional endeavours, she has a love for children’s literature - she enjoys reading to her kids and has even written and independently published two picture books as birthday gifts for them.

Her interest in renewable energy began during her undergraduate studies when she researched biofuel production from waste. However, at that time, Indonesia’s renewable energy industry was still in its early stages. In 2017, while volunteering in remote villages, she saw firsthand just how urgent the energy transition really is. Witnessing the impact of energy poverty firsthand - affecting healthcare, education, water, sanitation, and household economies - reinforced her commitment to ensuring reliable energy access for underserved communities. Since then, she has made it her mission to contribute to the acceleration of the energy transition and improve livelihoods through sustainable energy solutions.

Driving change

One of Yuanita’s most formative experiences was working on solar PV projects in remote villages. Bringing electricity to these communities allowed her to see the direct impact of renewable energy. The contrast between grassroots implementation and strategic consulting became evident—while policy and high-level planning are essential, real change happens on the ground. This experience continues to influence her work as a consultant, ensuring that her strategic analyses and policy recommendations always keep the needs of local communities in mind.

As a woman in a technical field, Yuanita acknowledges that challenges exist, but she encourages young women and underrepresented groups to pursue careers in energy and sustainability. Her advice: “Give it a try and keep learning. It is normal to doubt yourself, but there’s nothing to lose by applying for your dream job or pivoting to a new industry. A good portion of the work is something you will learn by doing, and that is okay.”

Working at Pondera: a role with impact

At Pondera, Yuanita works on a wide range of projects related to renewable energy and the energy transition. Her current projects include a solar PV feasibility study for the Philippines, greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting for a hydroelectric power plant in Indonesia in collaboration with Royal HaskoningDHV, and preparations for an SME decarbonization project. Her typical workday consists of desk research, techno-economic simulations, and collaboration with teams both within Pondera and externally, such as her regular visits to Royal HaskoningDHV's office. Depending on the project, she also conducts site visits to gain firsthand insights.

One of the projects she is most proud of is her first assignment at Pondera: a high-level techno-economic assessment for floating solar PV power plants in Indonesia. This project evaluated the techno-economic feasibility, GHG emissions reduction potential, and opportunity for carbon transactions.

Looking ahead

With her technical expertise, passion for sustainability, and hands-on experience in rural energy access, Yuanita Budiman is a valuable contributor to Pondera’s mission. Her work ensures that renewable energy policies and projects are not just well-planned but also create tangible benefits for communities. As she continues to bridge the gap between strategy and implementation, Yuanita remains committed to shaping a more sustainable and equitable energy future for Indonesia and beyond.