JAKARTA, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia has officially started construction of a 300-megawatt hydropower plant in East Kalimantan province.

Indonesian Presidential Special Envoy for Climate and Energy, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, said the project is part of the government's efforts to accelerate the achievement of its net-zero emissions target before 2060.

He said the project is also important for strengthening Indonesia's energy self-sufficiency, especially as global geopolitical tensions can disrupt fuel supplies.

President director of state electricity company PT PLN, Darmawan Prasodjo, said the project could be completed faster than the initial five-year target.

The project is also expected to improve connectivity through the construction of a 122-kilometer road and a bridge, while helping extend electricity supply to remote areas. ■