Off-grid Photovoltaic Applications in Indonesia: An Analysis of Preliminary Fieldwork Experience

During the past two decades photovoltaic (PV) power has been introduced to remote communities in developing countries as a means of remote area electrification. In Indonesia, approximately 5 MWp of PV power has been installed to date in the various provinces for powering lighting, water pumping, ice making, communications, health care, etc. Of the 5 MWp PV lighting systems contributed 1.8 MWp. Despite the massive number of PV power installations questions remain as to how PV installations can contribute to the sustainability of the lives of rural Indonesians who do not have access to grid electricity. This paper introduces a study of the sustainability of off-grid PV applications being carried out in Indonesia. In this study, these questions will be explored in relation to off-grid electricity supply by analysing how villagers and islanders, and on a larger scale present and future generations, might harvest benefits from the implementation of PV in off-grid applications. This is intended to scope a potentially broader study focused on the use of PV power systems as a means of rural energy development by, for example, facilitating income generation and broader improvements in social welfare. Some findings from preliminary fieldwork are presented and used to identify key issues for further analysis.