(Similarity+Document+Corresponding Author) Implications of Utilizing Protected Forest Areas for Geothermal Business: A Legal Analysis

Geothermal as an alternative and renewable energy
is mostly located in the forest areas, including protected forests, where the use of
forest areas for non-forestry activities is very selective and does not change the
function of the forest itself. Geothermal and forestry regulations require
synchronization regarding the use of protected forest areas so that they do not cause
legal conflicts. There are arose problems namely the existence of
conflicting norms in regulating the use of protected forest areas for geothermal
exploitation, between the Geothermal Law and the Forestry Law in combination with
Government Regulation No. 24 of 2010 concerning the Use of Forest Areas and
Regulation of the Minister of Environment and Forestry on Leasing of Forest Areas. This research method was normative research,
using a statutory approach equipped with a comparative approach. The research finding was the setting of leasing forest areas for geothermal
exploitation was contradictory and did not function to carry out the orders of the
Forestry Law. The research implication is that the Government together with the
Parliament must put into comprehensive special authorities and regulations related
to the management and utilization of energy in forest areas so that there is no overlap
and legal uncertainty in the use of forest areas.
Keywords: Implications; Protected Forest; Geothermal; Business