Kutai Kartanegara - Kalimantan Institute of Technology (ITK) continues its commitment to community service by introducing an innovative water filtration system based on Solar Power (PLTS) and the Internet of Things (IoT) for farmers in Sungai Merdeka Village, West Samboja District, Kutai Kartanegara Regency. This innovation aims to provide an environmentally friendly and sustainable irrigation solution.

For years, farmers in Sungai Merdeka Village have relied on river water as the primary source for irrigation. However, this water is contaminated with pathogenic microbes and heavy metals such as iron, manganese, and cadmium, which compromise water quality. Microbes like Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Vibrio cholerae, along with heavy metals, can damage soil quality and crops, directly affecting harvest yields.

In response to this challenge, ITK has designed an advanced water filtration system combining filtration technology, solar power, and IoT. The system uses filtration materials such as silica sand, activated carbon, gravel, and zeolite to effectively reduce microbial contamination and heavy metals. To ensure a sustainable energy supply, the system is powered by an off-grid PLTS with a capacity of 1650 WP that operates the water pump. Solar panels absorb sunlight, while batteries store energy for use during the night or in bad weather.

Integrated IoT technology allows real-time system monitoring via the MANSUR website. This platform displays data such as voltage, current, temperature, humidity, light intensity, and energy consumption, making it easy for users to ensure the system is functioning optimally.

The program was implemented from September to December 2024, with key stages including equipment procurement, system design, water sample collection, IoT and PLTS installation, and community outreach. Laboratory tests show that the filtration system is effective in reducing pathogenic microbes and heavy metals, leading to improved water quality and agricultural productivity.

On December 9, 2024, ITK’s team held a socialization event for the residents of RT 07, Sungai Merdeka Village. The event, attended by 28 local residents, provided education on how to use and maintain the solar-powered IoT-based filtration system. RT 07 head, Mr. Nur Hasem, praised the technology and expressed hope that similar innovations could be implemented in other areas.

This solar-powered water filtration system with IoT is expected to be a sustainable solution for farmers in Sungai Merdeka Village, reducing the impact of water contamination and enhancing energy efficiency. ITK hopes that this innovation will inspire similar technological applications in other regions, improving food security while preserving ecosystems and environmental health.

Authors: Marsa Naufal, Muhammad Iskandar Yusuf, Annisa Fatimatuz Zahrah, Ayuk Saroh Qarini, Adnan Dafa Raihan, Khoirul Erfanudin, Maulana Ibrahim, Muhammad Rozul Faza, Muhammad Fajar Rivaldi, Lindra Rahmad Rizqi Julian, Nur Sepliana Harfika, Muhammad Fathur Rozi, Joyce Felecya Sitinjak, Ilal Jannati Yumaroh, Johannes Martin Sinambela.