In the heart of Indonesia, a nation bathed in abundant sunshine, a groundbreaking study led by Muhammad Ryan Hafizan of Universitas Riau is set to revolutionize how apartment buildings approach energy sustainability. The research, published in the ‘International Journal of Electrical, Energy and Power Systems Engineering’ (Jurnal Sistem Energi Listrik, Energi dan Sistem Energi Internasional), delves into the implementation of solar power plants as a backup power source, offering a glimpse into a future where reliance on fossil fuels could be significantly reduced.
Indonesia, with its average solar energy potential of 4.8 kWh/m²/day, presents a golden opportunity for harnessing renewable energy. The Lana Apartment, a complex with high electricity consumption, serves as the perfect testbed for this innovative approach. Currently, the apartment’s main power supply comes from the state-owned electricity company PLN, with a capacity of 2000 kVA, while a 1250 kVA generator acts as the backup. However, the environmental and financial costs of this setup are substantial.
Hafizan’s research aims to shift this paradigm by designing a solar power plant that can serve as an environmentally friendly backup power system. Using HOMER software, a powerful tool for modeling energy production and system performance, the study has yielded promising results. The designed solar power plant boasts a capacity of 2997.28 kWp, an inverter capacity of 3500 kW, and a battery capacity of 50160 Ah. “This system can generate approximately 4,165,251.97 kWh per year,” Hafizan explains, highlighting the significant potential of solar energy in meeting the apartment’s power needs. With a performance ratio of 79.32%, the system demonstrates operational efficiency that aligns with optimal solar power plant standards.
The commercial implications of this research are vast. For the energy sector, this study paves the way for integrating renewable energy sources into existing infrastructure, reducing operational costs, and lowering carbon emissions. “The implementation of these solar power plants is expected to provide a more environmentally friendly backup power alternative and potentially reduce operational electricity costs in the apartment building,” Hafizan states, underscoring the dual benefits of sustainability and economic viability.
As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, this research offers a compelling case study. It shows that with the right design and technology, even high-consumption buildings can transition to cleaner, more efficient energy sources. The findings suggest that similar implementations could be scaled up across various sectors, from residential complexes to commercial buildings, driving a broader shift towards renewable energy.
This research not only addresses immediate energy needs but also sets a precedent for future developments. As more buildings adopt solar power plants, the demand for advanced energy storage solutions and efficient inverters will likely surge, fostering innovation in the renewable energy sector. The integration of solar power plants into existing infrastructure could also inspire policymakers to incentivize green energy adoption, further accelerating the transition to a sustainable future.
For energy professionals, this study serves as a beacon of what’s possible. It challenges conventional thinking and encourages the exploration of renewable energy solutions that can transform our cities and industries. As Hafizan’s work gains traction, it could inspire similar initiatives worldwide, contributing to a global movement towards energy sustainability and resilience.
