Assessment and improvement plan of the sustainability index in the development of palm bioenergy for Riau province electricity in Indonesia as a case study

Riau province in Indonesia plays an essential role in meeting the nation's energy needs with its rich biodiversity and significant agricultural potential, particularly in palm oil. Palm oil cultivation, which spans vast areas in Riau, contributes substantially to plant-based fuel production. However, energy challenges persist, especially in remote areas lacking of reliable electricity. This research assesses the sustainability of palm oil-based bioenergy focusing on PT Perkebunan Nusantara V (PTPN-V). The study evaluates environmental, social, and economic dimensions using sustainability indicators such as GHG emissions, soil quality, and income changes. Methods include literature reviews, field surveys, and system analysis using Fuzzy AHP and MDS for sustainability index evaluation. Results show a moderately sustainable development score of 56.14%, balancing environmental, social, and economic performances. The analysis identifies five key sensitive attributes that inform the overall sustainability status of 56.41% for PKS Terantam, serving as a benchmark for future improvements.