UNS— Students from Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta who are currently participating in the Community Service Program (KKN) are introducing alternative energy to the community and elementary school students in Kepyar Village, Wonogiri. An interactive method using a Solar Power Plant (PLTS) trainer kit is utilized for the learning medium. Throughout the period from February to March 2024, those involved in Group 26 have been implementing this program to facilitate understanding both in theory and practice.

The team consists of Muhammad Iksan Bima Aria Pratama, Muhammad Choirul Anam, Alka Adi Nugroho, Reyza Fachrezy Putra, Muhammad Nur Hidayat, Monalisa Indah Parawansa, Zahra Fadilla Ekasuci, Arlinda Dwi Restanti, Yuliyana Ayunta Solikhah, and Ayu Nur Fayza. These UNS students are advocating the theme of Sustainable Energy as a form of education for the community, especially in Kepyar Village, Wonogiri, about the importance of transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy.

Reyza Fachrezy Putra, a member of UNS KKN Group 26, conveyed that such activities can prepare future generations to be aware of the importance of sustainable energy in the times to come.

“This activity can enhance students’ knowledge about the importance of renewable energy, especially solar energy, in daily life,” Reyza explained on Monday (18/3/2024).

The UNS KKN students also conducted a feasibility study analysis for PLTS for water pumps. This was done not only to implement the use of green energy from solar energy but also to save on electricity bills for operating water pumps.

Sutrisno, the manager of the Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) and the local Neighborhood Association (RW) leader, shared the energy-related issues faced by his residents. He added that the current electricity supply sometimes cannot power the water pumps due to the high power demand and the need for voltage stability. Hence, UNS KKN Group 26 conducted a feasibility study for PLTS.

“One refill costs up to 200,000 rupiahs but only lasts for one night,” Sutrisno said.

Agus Ramelan, the field supervisor for UNS KKN Group 26, hopes that this feasibility study can be considered and assist the village in solving several issues regarding water pumps when they are to be implemented.

“PLTS is beneficial for maintaining stable power quality, especially voltage,” Agus Ramelan explained.

Muhammad Nur Hidayat, the student in charge of the activities, stated the feasibility of installing PLTS. The need for water pumps in the village prompted the feasibility of installing PLTS. The area has good solar radiation of around 5.2 kWh/m2.

Another program conducted is the socialization of sustainable energy with the community. UNS KKN students reported the results of the feasibility study for using PLTS for water pump purposes in Kepyar Village. The activity went smoothly, and participants were enthusiastic about attending the socialization, actively engaging in discussions during the Q&A session.

Several KKN programs by students are a form of implementing knowledge acquired during lectures. This is then applied in the form of community service. This serves as a tangible example of how higher education can directly contribute to society.

Children are involved from an early age to understand the importance of sustainable energy so they can contribute more in the future. The community is engaged as individuals who can initiate the energy transition from now on. Thus, with the involvement of children and the community, a cycle of sustainable clean energy can be created from now into the future. Humas UNS