In the heart of Pesanggrahan, a quiet revolution is underway, one that could reshape the future of farming and energy consumption. Lorenta In Haryanto, a researcher from the Department of Agribusiness at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, has been leading a groundbreaking project that marries solar energy with hydroponic farming, creating a sustainable model that could redefine energy independence for farming communities.
The project, detailed in the journal Abdimas: Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Universitas Merdeka Malang, focuses on integrating solar panels with hydroponic systems to power water pumps. This innovative approach not only reduces operational costs but also supports energy conservation efforts, a critical factor in today’s energy landscape.
Hydroponic farming, which involves growing plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil, is already known for its efficiency and sustainability. However, the energy required to run the water pumps can be a significant operational cost. By harnessing solar energy, farmers can significantly cut down on electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
The project, which ran from April to October 2024, collaborated with a local farmer group called Hidroponik Generik (HG). The results were nothing short of impressive. An 800 WP solar panel provided 1600 WH of energy daily, powering the pumps for 12-13 hours. This setup reduced electricity usage by 66 percent and cut monthly expenses by 10 percent. “The impact on our farm has been transformative,” said a member of the HG group. “We’ve seen a 15 percent increase in income, and our understanding of solar technology has improved by 45 percent.”
The integration of vertical hydroponic technology further enhanced the project’s success. Vertical hydroponics allows for more efficient use of space, making it ideal for urban agriculture where land is scarce. This dual approach not only boosts farm income but also supports sustainable farming practices.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are vast. As more farming communities adopt solar-powered hydroponic systems, the demand for solar panels and related technologies is likely to surge. This shift could spur innovation in the solar energy sector, leading to more efficient and cost-effective solutions. “This project is a testament to the potential of renewable energy in agriculture,” Haryanto noted. “It’s not just about reducing costs; it’s about creating a sustainable future for our farmers and our planet.”
The success of this project in Pesanggrahan could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives worldwide. As urbanization continues to rise, the need for sustainable and efficient farming practices becomes increasingly urgent. By leveraging solar energy, farming communities can achieve energy independence, reduce costs, and contribute to a greener future.
The findings, published in the journal Abdimas: Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Universitas Merdeka Malang, highlight the transformative potential of integrating solar energy with hydroponic farming. As more research and development focus on this intersection, we can expect to see significant advancements in both agriculture and energy sectors. The future of farming is not just about growing crops; it’s about growing a sustainable future.
