Application of photovoltaic systems for increasing villagers’ income

Abstract

The progress of rural electrification in Indonesia faces specific problems because of the fragmented geography of Indonesia. The major electricity grid and a number of isolated local grids cannot economically reach many rural areas [1]. A photovoltaic system is one suitable solution because of its flexibility, low environmental impact and freedom from fuel requirements. The Agency for Assessment and Application of Technology has been carrying out technology assessments and applications in an effort to introduce photovoltaic applications in Indonesia. Recently the Agency for Assessment and Application of Technology and the Bavarian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Transport and Technology have established a pilot project of photovoltaic systems in the District of Lamongan, East Java Province. This pilot project is an integrated activity, which includes several agriculture activities such as: a fishing pond, chicken farming, a banana plantation which is grown on the little dike of the pond, a chicken incubator and solar boat systems. This paper will explain, elaborate and discuss the technical specification and results of implementation of the systems.