In the heart of Indonesia, a pioneering project is set to revolutionize the way we think about solar energy integration. Raihan Putri, a researcher from the Department of Electrical Engineering at Malikussaleh University in Lhokseumawe, has spearheaded an innovative on-grid solar power system installation at SDN 023905 Binjai. The project, detailed in the Majlesi Journal of Electrical Engineering, is not just a technical feat but a beacon of sustainability and financial prudence.
Putri’s research focuses on harnessing the abundant solar energy in Indonesia to reduce reliance on conventional electrical sources. The proposed system, with a capacity of 1.2kWp, comprises four 300Wp solar panels connected in series and a 1.2 kW to 3 kW inverter. This setup is designed to optimize energy production and integration with the existing grid, a critical aspect for any on-grid solar project.
The feasibility of the project is underscored by its impressive Performance Ratio (PR) of 84%, well above the minimum benchmark of 70%. This high PR indicates that the system is not only efficient but also reliable, a crucial factor for commercial viability. “The high PR is a testament to the meticulous planning and design of the system,” Putri explains. “It ensures that the solar power plant will operate at peak efficiency, providing a stable and reliable energy source.”
The financial implications of this project are equally compelling. With an initial investment of IDR 31,555,222, the payback period is remarkably swift, occurring within the first year and month of the 20-year operational lifespan. This rapid return on investment makes the project not only environmentally beneficial but also commercially attractive. “The swift payback period is a game-changer,” Putri notes. “It demonstrates that investing in solar energy can be both profitable and sustainable, encouraging more institutions to adopt similar systems.”
The commercial impacts of this research are far-reaching. As more institutions and businesses see the financial and environmental benefits of on-grid solar systems, the demand for such solutions is likely to surge. This could spur innovation in the energy sector, leading to more efficient and cost-effective solar technologies. The success of this project at SDN 023905 Binjai could serve as a blueprint for similar installations across Indonesia and beyond, driving the global transition to renewable energy.
The research, published in the Majlesi Journal of Electrical Engineering, translates to the ‘Majlesi Journal of Electrical Engineering’ in English, highlights the potential of on-grid solar systems to transform energy landscapes. As we move towards a more sustainable future, projects like this one will play a pivotal role in shaping the energy sector, making solar power not just an alternative but a mainstream energy source.