UNS — Students from the Electrical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering (FT), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, have achieved a remarkable victory at the prestigious PLN ElectroChic Challenge 2024. Organized by PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) Persero, Central Java and Yogyakarta Regional Unit, the competition aims to inspire young people to develop clean energy innovations in support of Indonesia’s 2060 net zero emissions target. The UNS team, comprised of Affan Islahuddin, Fachrizal Ihsan Anugerah Akbar, and Ganang Aris Setiawan, secured first place with their innovative IoT-based clean water purification system powered by solar energy.
After registering in July 2024, the FT UNS team advanced to the final round, held in person at the Solopos Media Group (SMG) office on October 22, 2024. Their project, titled “IoT and Solar-Powered Clean Water Distillation System,” impressed the judges with its simple yet impactful approach. The idea emerged as a solution to reduce the high consumption of sugary drinks, especially among students, a significant risk factor for early-onset diabetes.
“Our project integrates an IoT-based distillation system with a hybrid solar power source, including a website feature for educational purposes,” team member Affan Islahuddin stated from ft.uns.ac.id on Monday (4/11/2024). “The goal is to help schools encourage healthy food and drink choices to reduce early signs of diabetes.”
Affan expressed his gratitude for the support received from their professors in developing the project to reach the final round. “Our professors’ guidance and the team’s dedication greatly supported us through this journey. This success has motivated us and our peers to continue striving for achievements,” he added.
The victory announcement, shared with the broader Electrical Engineering community at UNS, aims to inspire other students to actively participate in various competitions.
The 2024 PLN ElectroChic Challenge goes beyond competition; it encourages young people to care for the environment and incorporate renewable energy in their innovations. Through their success, the UNS team hopes to inspire others to pursue environmentally friendly technological solutions.
“We hope other FT students are inspired to achieve, develop their ideas, and positively impact society,” Affan said.
The accomplishment by UNS Electrical Engineering students aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: “Quality Education” and Goal 9: “Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.” Quality education at UNS continues to foster innovation and achievements among young people, particularly students.
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