Improving the Interpretation of Electricity Access in Indonesia Through the Multi-Tier Framework Access Index

Abstract

Indonesia’s national electrification ratio has long relied on a binary classification—whether or not a household is connected to an electricity source. While this metric is valuable for monitoring progress in expanding grid coverage, it does not fully reflect the quality and usability of electricity services delivered to communities. Important aspects such as reliability, power capacity, affordability, and the adequacy of electricity for household, productivity, and community activities remain unaccounted for. To complement this traditional indicator, this study applies the Multi-Tier Framework (MTF) developed by ESMAP–World Bank as an enhanced assessment tool. Rather than replacing the Electrification Ratio, the MTF provides additional layers of insight by evaluating seven dimensions of household electricity access, along with extended attributes for productive uses and community infrastructure. Field assessments were carried out in various on-grid and off-grid areas across Indonesia, including locations utilizing SuperSUN systems and villages supplied through the national grid. Findings reveal that although all surveyed locations are officially classified as “electrified,” their actual service levels differ substantially—especially in power capacity, affordability, and reliability. These variations demonstrate the value of integrating MTF-based analysis alongside the national electrification ratio to generate a more holistic, quality-focused understanding of energy access. Furthermore, the MTF framework offers a structured approach for identifying areas requiring improvement, enabling PLN and other stakeholders to design interventions that are more targeted, equitable, and aligned with the real experiences of communities across Indonesia.