Kajian Penggunaan Panel Surya 100 Wp Sebagai Sumber Energi Untuk Sistem Hidroponik

Abstract

This study examines the use of 100 Watt Peak (WP) solar panels as an alternative energy source to operate hydroponic systems, particularly in the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) technique which requires a continuous power supply for water pumps. Dependence on PLN electricity is a constraint for hydroponic farmers, especially in areas with unstable electricity supplies or high operational costs. Solar panels were chosen as a renewable energy solution that is environmentally friendly, economical, and supports energy independence. The study was conducted by designing a 100 WP solar panel system connected to a solar charge controller, storage battery, and water pump as the main components of the hydroponic system. Data collection was carried out for 14 days with 30-minute intervals from 08.00–16.00. The parameters observed included solar radiation intensity, voltage, current, panel output power, water flow rate, and the efficiency of the solar panels and water pumps. The results showed that solar radiation intensity significantly affects the performance of the solar panels and pumps. The highest output power reached 57.72 W at a radiation intensity of 736.9 W/m², with an average solar panel efficiency of 10–12%. The pump water flow rate was relatively stable at 0.00026–0.00027 m³/s with a pump efficiency of around 18–20%. The system remained stable despite a decrease in performance during cloudy weather conditions. Overall, the 100 WP solar panel has proven capable of providing sufficient energy for the operation of small to medium-scale hydroponic systems. The use of solar energy can increase energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and become a sustainable solution for the development of modern hydroponic-based agriculture.