Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, faces a unique challenge: providing reliable and sustainable electricity to over 17,000 islands, many of which are remote and disconnected from the national grid. Recognizing this, Dr. Khoirul Anwar, an Indonesian engineer and innovator, has advanced a groundbreaking solar microgrid technology tailored to the country’s geographical and socio-economic needs. This innovation bridges energy gaps and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, aligning Indonesia’s energy landscape with its climate change mitigation goals.
The technology, known as Modular Solar Microgrid Systems, is designed to harness solar energy for off-grid communities. These systems consist of solar panels, battery storage units, and inverters that convert solar power into usable electricity. They are particularly suited for Indonesia’s remote islands, where extending the national grid is impractical, and diesel generators were previously the primary energy source. Depending on the size and energy demand, installing a microgrid can cost between $5,000 and USD 50,000, with the system capable of providing electricity for lighting, water pumps, schools, healthcare centers, and small-scale businesses.
A key component of this initiative is community involvement. Residents receive training to operate and maintain the system, including cleaning panels, monitoring battery health, and troubleshooting minor issues. This ensures sustainability while empowering the community to take ownership of their energy resources.
Since its introduction, solar microgrids have been deployed in over 200 remote villages across Indonesia, especially in eastern regions like Papua, Maluku, and East Nusa Tenggara. These installations have significantly improved energy access, increasing electricity availability from 2-4 hours per day (using diesel) to a reliable 24-hour supply. The transition has also helped reduce household energy costs by 30-50% compared to diesel or kerosene use.
From an environmental perspective, the impact is profound. Each microgrid displaces diesel generators, cutting 2-5 tons of CO₂ emissions annually per community. With 200 installations in place, the cumulative annual reduction exceeds 1,000 tons of CO₂, contributing directly to Indonesia’s renewable energy target of 23% by 2025, as outlined in its National Energy Plan.
Beyond Indonesia, similar microgrid technologies have been adopted in countries like the Philippines, Kenya, and India, where remote regions face comparable challenges. However, the innovation is not without hurdles. The disposal of aging batteries poses an environmental risk, and the high initial costs may be prohibitive for some communities without subsidies or financial support. Addressing these issues through improved recycling practices and government incentives is crucial for scaling this solution further.
Dr. Anwar’s solar microgrid initiative exemplifies how tailored technology can drive transformative change. Replacing diesel generators with renewable solar power reduces emissions, empowers local economies, and fosters a sustainable energy future. This innovation underscores the potential of clean energy solutions to address energy inequality and combat climate change globally.
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Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR)
The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) is a leading think tank in Indonesia dedicated to advancing sustainable energy policies, addressing climate change, and promoting environmental reform. Established in 2007, IESR is committed to accelerating the transition to renewable energy, ensuring energy security, and providing all Indonesians equitable access to clean energy. Its work focuses on comprehensive research, policy advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives that align with Indonesia’s climate goals, including its pledge to achieve 23% renewable energy in its energy mix by 2025.
One of IESR’s core impact areas is deploying renewable energy solutions, such as solar photovoltaics (PV) and microgrid systems, to serve communities in remote and underserved regions. By fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society, IESR has made renewable energy adoption practical and scalable nationwide.
About Fabby Tumiwa
Fabby Tumiwa, the Executive Director of IESR, is a prominent figure in Indonesia’s energy policy landscape. With extensive energy transition and climate advocacy expertise, Tumiwa has been a driving force in promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies nationwide. Under his leadership, IESR has undertaken groundbreaking initiatives, such as deploying solar PV systems in off-grid areas and conducting feasibility studies to demonstrate the potential of clean energy solutions for Indonesia’s unique geographic and economic challenges.
Tumiwa has also been instrumental in building local capacity by facilitating training programs for technicians and communities, ensuring the sustainability of solar energy systems. Beyond implementation, he has contributed to shaping policy frameworks that support renewable energy growth, making clean energy more accessible and affordable for Indonesian households and businesses.
Name: Fabby Tumiwa
Organization: Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR)
Position: Executive Director
Contact Email: iesr@iesr.or.id
This post was submitted by Climate Scorecard Indonesia Country Manager Netra Naik.