Jakarta, Oct. 30 -- Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung said the Wairara micro-hydro plant (PLTMH) in East Sumba is spurring local economic growth by delivering reliable clean energy that empowers communities beyond basic lighting.

"Access to clean energy is not just about lighting-it opens up new economic opportunities," Tanjung said in Jakarta on Thursday.

He said the 128-kilowatt plant has become a catalyst for community productivity, enabling traditional "ikat" weavers to work longer, supporting home-based industries that no longer rely on daylight, and allowing evening classes for students seeking extra learning time.

"Wairara is the first village in the area to be truly free from darkness," he said.

The Wairara PLTMH draws pow...