Empowering Women through Sustainable Hybrid Solar Hydroponics
Malaysia: Lundu, Kuching Division of Sarawak (IEEE Region 10)
Year Funded by Tech4Good
Funding Provided by Tech4Good*
Individuals Impacted
Number of Volunteers
* funding in USD
Sustainable Development Goals
Team Members
The project’s implementation team consisted of IEEE & IEEE SIGHT members, primarily electrical engineering lecturers demonstrating expertise in similar projects, and 18 non-IEEE volunteers.
Two of the team members joined IEEE during the project.
Project Description
In Kampung Kendaie, Lundu, Sarawak, Malaysia, on the Malaysia-Indonesia border, a local community relied solely on conventional utility sources for household and agricultural needs. To reduce this reliance and promote sustainability, a hybrid solar-powered hydroponic farming system was installed, reducing the carbon footprint and raising local awareness of clean energy.
This project used various technologies, including a hybrid solar PV system, an inverter, and an energy storage system to bring a more reliable, cleaner, and more sustainable source of electricity for the rural communities served. The project also integrates a smart grid system that helps optimize energy use and distribution for the hydroponic system.
Initial Impact
The hybrid solar-powered hydroponic farming system was installed and demonstrated to help the community understand the principles of solar energy. The system includes 600 planting holes and benefits about 30 households (120 individuals – 43 males and 77 females), with a strong focus on women’s empowerment through skills development, decision-making, and income generation. Hydroponic farming offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional agriculture by using less water, eliminating the need for pesticides, and producing higher-quality yields in less time.
The local community gained a clear understanding of the role of solar energy in hydroponic systems through training and hands-on project implementation. Additionally, income generated from the project can be reinvested to help sustain its operations in the future. The community now has a reliable and sustainable way to grow its own fresh produce, reducing dependency on external sources. Participants gained valuable skills in both solar technology and hydroponic farming, strengthening their ability to pursue future agricultural initiatives.
IEEE members can continue to contribute their expertise by improving the solar and hydroponic systems and training community members in maintenance and operations.
