In the heart of Kupang, Indonesia, a church is leading the way in renewable energy, demonstrating the potential of rooftop solar power plants (PLTS) to revolutionize energy consumption and sustainability. The GMIT Jemaat Paulus Kupang has become an unlikely pioneer in the energy sector, thanks to a groundbreaking study conducted by Viko Nobertus Mau, a researcher from Universitas Nusa Cendana.
Mau’s research, published in the Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer, delves into the operational analysis of the rooftop solar power plant installed at the church. The study, which spanned four months, aimed to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the solar power system in a real-world setting. The findings are not just a testament to the church’s commitment to sustainability but also a beacon of hope for the energy sector, highlighting the commercial viability and environmental benefits of solar power.
The research employed a mix of descriptive and quantitative methods, including literature reviews, interviews with PLTS management officers, and direct field measurements. Mau and his team used tools like digital multimeters and ampere pliers to gather data on solar radiation intensity, ambient temperature, and the physical condition of the solar panels and inverters. “The data we collected provided a comprehensive view of how the solar power system performs under varying conditions,” Mau explained. “This is crucial for understanding the system’s efficiency and identifying areas for improvement.”
One of the most striking findings was the significant impact of environmental factors on the solar power plant’s performance. Solar radiation intensity and ambient temperature played pivotal roles in determining the system’s output. This insight is invaluable for the energy sector, as it underscores the need for adaptive technologies and strategies to maximize solar power generation.
During the study period, GMIT Jemaat Paulus Kupang consumed a total of 561.396 kWh of electrical power. Impressively, the PLTS supplied 499.2468 kWh of this energy, with the remaining 62.1492 kWh provided by the state-owned electricity company, PLN. What’s even more remarkable is that the excess power generated by the PLTS was exported back to the PLN network. This not only highlights the potential for solar power to meet energy demands but also opens up opportunities for energy trading and grid stabilization.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, it underscores the need for robust solar power infrastructure and adaptive technologies that can withstand varying environmental conditions. It also highlights the potential for energy trading, where excess solar power can be sold back to the grid, creating a new revenue stream for businesses and households.
As Mau puts it, “The future of energy lies in renewable sources like solar power. Our research at GMIT Jemaat Paulus Kupang is just the beginning. It shows that with the right technology and strategies, we can make solar power a reliable and profitable energy source.”
The study, published in the Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer, is a significant step forward in the field of renewable energy. It provides a blueprint for future developments, emphasizing the need for adaptive technologies, comprehensive data analysis, and innovative strategies to maximize solar power generation. As the world continues to grapple with energy crises and environmental challenges, research like Mau’s offers a glimmer of hope, paving the way for a sustainable and energy-efficient future.