First in Indonesia, IPB University Inaugurates Agri-Photovoltaic Research Station

IPB University has inaugurated the Agri-Photovoltaic Research Station at the Cikabayan Educational Farm, Dramaga Campus, Bogor (22/11). This unit is the first in Indonesia to integrate agriculture with solar panel-based energy.  

With a capacity of 50.000 watts, the system harnesses sunlight for agricultural purposes while simultaneously generating electricity.  

The station is also equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The electricity produced is used to charge electric vehicles and will support the operations of a smart greenhouse, which is also planned to be built at the Cikabayan Educational Farm.  

The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, stated that IPB University continues to adapt to global challenges through innovative policies addressing the needs of the Industrial Revolution 4,0 era.  

He noted that this era is marked by the development of new technologies such as AI, big data, and others. “Therefore, IPB University strives to contribute through educational innovation and global collaboration,” he said.  

Prof Arif further explained that to address these challenges, IPB University has also reformed its education system by establishing new study programs, such as the Smart Agriculture Program.  

He added that one of the educational initiatives is the construction of the smart greenhouse at the Leuwikopo Experimental Farm of IPB University and the development of the Agri-Photovoltaic Research Station.  

“Thank you to Korea for the significant support provided for various innovative programs at IPB University,” he remarked.  

Sung Yong, CEO of Envelops Co., stated that the Agri-Photovoltaic project represents strong collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges of climate change. He mentioned that the project also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing renewable energy and improving efficiency in the agricultural sector.  

“Congratulations on the launch of the Agri-Photovoltaic project at IPB University, which provides an innovative learning tool to support the development of smart agriculture technology in the future,” he said.  

The manager of the Agri-Photovoltaic project, who is also the Secretary of the Center for Regional Planning and Development Studies (P4W) at IPB University, Dr Bambang Hendro Trisasongko, stated that this initiative aligns with IPB University’s vision of achieving sustainability in three key areas: food, energy, and water (FEW).  

“For energy use, we will allocate 30.000 watts for the greenhouse and 20.000 watts for electric vehicles,” he explained. (dr/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)