UNDIP’s 167 KKNT Team Encourages Kemambang Village’s Energy Independence through Bio-Briquette Innovation and PLTS Education

Banyubiru, Semarang Regency – Diponegoro University’s Thematic Real Work Lecture (KKNT) 167 team initiated concrete steps in supporting clean energy transition and village energy independence through a program entitled “Energy Independence Strategy through Combining PLTS and Agricultural Waste Bio-Briquettes” which was held in Kemambang Village, Banyubiru District, Semarang Regency.

This program focuses on training in the production of bio-briquettes made from agricultural waste such as straw and husks. Waste that has not been optimally utilized is now transformed into environmentally friendly solid fuel as an alternative to firewood and LPG. Through hands-on training sessions, Kemambang villagers are taught the entire briquette production process, from processing raw materials, mixing with natural adhesives, molding, to the drying process. “These bio-briquettes are an alternative fuel to firewood and LPG that is not only cheap, but also environmentally friendly and empowers local agricultural waste,” said Malika, a member of the UNDIP KKNT 167 Team. She added that the potential of agricultural waste in Kemambang Village is very high and worth developing as a sustainable alternative energy source.

The bio-briquettes product from KKN 167

In addition to bio-briquette training, the KKNT team also provided additional education on the utilization of solar energy through Solar Power Plant (PLTS) technology. This socialization aims to introduce the concept of solar energy as a source of household electricity that is economical, clean, and supports a sustainable lifestyle. PLTS was also highlighted as an added value in the development of an energy tourism area around the Sitaring PLTS line.

The community responded enthusiastically to the program, actively participating in the hands-on briquette-making sessions. Several residents expressed interest in continuing bio-briquette production as a small-scale, environmentally friendly business opportunity. More than just a student project, this initiative marks the beginning of Kemambang Village’s transformation into a renewable energy-based tourism village. With continued support from the village government, local community, and academia, this initiative is expected to have a positive long-term impact on the community-both in terms of economy, energy security, and environmental preservation.