UNAIR NEWS – The Electrical Engineering Student Association (IME) of Universitas Airlangga continues to demonstrate its commitment to community empowerment through practical technology. As part of the UNAIR SDGs Center 2025 Call for Pengmas initiative, IME organized an outreach program focused on renewable energy and agricultural technology innovation at the Wangkal Kepuh Village Hall in Jombang Regency on Saturday (July 12, 2025).
The initiative supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and No. 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). It also builds upon IME’s previous project in the village, which involved the installation of an IoT-based crop drying system.
Solar energy and smart technology to support independent farming
During the main session, the IME team introduced the concept of solar energy utilization and unveiled their self-developed “Solar Harvest” device. This technology relies on solar panels and an automated heating system to accelerate crop drying.
“We designed this technology to be efficient and user-friendly, even for night-time use. Energy collected during the day is stored in batteries for later use,” explained Alfananda Ardiansyah, Head of Community Engagement at IME.
Engaging discussion: Residents show enthusiasm and interest in development
The discussion session was lively and interactive. A resident, Mr. Edi Susilo, asked about the battery’s role in improving the tool’s performance. Ardiansyah explained that while boosting battery capacity can enhance efficiency, manual methods like turning the rice husks are still needed for optimal results.
Another question came from Saharani of the UNAIR SDGs team, who inquired about the potential for scaling up. The IME team proposed a greenhouse model equipped with a multi-layer system and natural heat storage, though they noted it would require additional investment.
When asked by Ratna Candara Puspita about the device’s cost, Ardiansyah estimated it at IDR 4–4.5 million. He added that the cost could be significantly reduced if villagers assemble the devices themselves with proper guidance.
Student–village collaboration paves the way for sustainable energy
Wangkal Kepuh Village Head, Mr. Nurhadi, expressed his gratitude for the educational effort. “UNAIR students didn’t just bring equipment—they shared knowledge. That’s a valuable asset for our goal of becoming an energy-independent village,” he said.
This initiative highlights how collaboration between students, technology, and local wisdom can foster community self-reliance. IME UNAIR’s efforts underscore that meaningful progress toward sustainable, modern agriculture can begin right at the village level.
Author: Nafiesa Zahra
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
