Indonesia takes a leap forward in its energy transition with the launch of Solar2Wave, the nation’s first marine solar power plant prototype, by Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS). Developed in partnership with Cranfield University, Universitas Pattimura (Unpatti), Orela Shipyard, PT Gerbang Multindo Nusantara, Achelous Energy Ltd, and HelioRec, the prototype was unveiled at the ITS Research and Technology Innovation Gallery (GRIT).
ITS Chancellor, Prof Dr Ir Mochamad Ashari MEng IPU AEng, emphasized the significance of extending solar applications to the sea to maximize impact, acknowledging the challenge posed by large sea waves. Solar2Wave addresses this challenge with a floating solar panel area integrated with a system to mitigate wave-related damages.
Head of the Indonesian Research Team, Prof Dr I Ketut Aria Pria Utama MSc, outlined Solar2Wave’s design, which includes six monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels with a total capacity of 600 watts, along with an energy storage system and certified floating cubes resistant to environmental factors.
After successful prototype development, the Solar2Wave pilot project will be implemented in the Gili Ketapang area, East Java, with a projected capacity of 25 kilowatts. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on diesel-fueled power plants and support local electricity demands, including services like an ice cube factory for fishermen.
Solar2Wave received £300,000 in initial funding from Innovate UK, with an additional £500,000 earmarked for future research starting in April 2024. Prof Ikap expressed optimism about expanding research partnerships, especially with government entities, to further the project’s objectives.
Unpatti Chancellor Prof Dr Fredy Leiwakabessy MPd hailed Solar2Wave as a means to harness Indonesia’s marine potential for enhancing community welfare, envisioning its broader implementation to bolster community accessibility across various sectors, particularly in regions like Maluku.
Solar2Wave signifies a significant milestone in Indonesia’s renewable energy landscape, reflecting collaborative efforts toward sustainable development and equitable prosperity.
