In a significant step towards advancing Indonesia’s energy transition, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has unveiled Solar2Wave, the country’s inaugural marine solar power plant floating structure prototype. This pioneering initiative, developed in collaboration with Cranfield University, Universitas Pattimura (Unpatti), Orela Shipyard, PT Gerbang Multindo Nusantara, Achelous Energy Ltd, and HelioRec, was introduced at the ITS Research and Technology Innovation Gallery (GRIT).
ITS Chancellor, Prof Dr Ir Mochamad Ashari MEng IPU AEng, highlighted the significance of extending solar power plant applications to the sea, aiming to maximize its impact. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by large sea waves, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. Solar2Wave emerges as a response to this obstacle, featuring a floating solar panel area equipped with an integrated system to mitigate wave-related damages.
Head of the Indonesian Research Team, Prof Dr I Ketut Aria Pria Utama MSc, detailed Solar2Wave’s design, comprising six monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels with a total capacity of 600 watts. Equipped with an energy storage system and certified floating cubes resistant to various environmental factors, Solar2Wave aims to address the energy needs of coastal communities.
Following the successful development of the prototype, 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 vital services like an ice cube factory for fishermen.
Solar2Wave received initial funding of £300,000 from Innovate UK, with additional support of £500,000 for future research endeavors starting in April 2024. Prof Ikap expressed optimism about expanding research partnerships, particularly with government entities, to advance the project’s objectives further.
Unpatti Chancellor Prof Dr Fredy Leiwakabessy MPd hailed Solar2Wave as a means to harness Indonesia’s marine potential for enhancing community welfare, particularly in regions like Maluku. He envisaged the project’s broader implementation to bolster community accessibility across various sectors, nurturing the vision of a prosperous Indonesia.
Solar2Wave represents a significant milestone in Indonesia’s renewable energy landscape, symbolizing collaborative efforts towards sustainable development and equitable prosperity.
