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First Renewable Energy Innovation Competition in Maluku Province has provided a platform for creative ideas and served the younger generation. They are the agents of change contributing to the penetration of renewable energy. Initiated by NZMATES, this competition represents a progressive step towards advancing the renewable energy transition in Maluku Province, Indonesia. Aptly named “GENIUS” (Generasi Energi Terbarukan dan Inovasi Unggul untuk Masa Depan Maluku), the competition underscores the need for collective efforts beyond government initiatives to drive energy transitions.
The competition followed a structured process, beginning with the selection of concept notes, proposal presentations, funding for prototype development, final presentations, prototype demonstrations, and the announcement of winners at the closing of the 1st Maluku Energy Forum 2024 on 21 November 2024. Team Lawamena emerged as the first-place winner with its innovative solar-powered IoT-based water pump irrigation system aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity in Maluku. They triumphed over four other teams, including Luxin Tenebris, Seistric, Molucc, and Smart Rumpon, through rigorous evaluation by the judges.
Luxin Tenebris claimed second place with its prototype of a solar-powered lighting system for speed boats operating on the Haruku Island crossing route to improve passenger services. Third place went to Team Seistric, with their IoT-based flood early warning system prototype utilising deep learning and renewable energy in Ambon City. Meanwhile, Team Molucc and Smart Rumpon were awarded Honourable Mentions for their respective projects: Molucc’s Eco Solar-Based Greenhouse Evaporation system for Pulau Panjang and Smart Rumpon’s smart fishing Rumpon system for traditional fishermen in Ambon waters using photovoltaic technology.
Additionally, the prototypes from the top three teams—Lawamena, Luxin Tenebris, and Seistric—have now been handed over to local communities for practical use. For NZMATES, this competition is not only an awards platform but also a tangible step towards accelerating innovation and collaboration in the renewable energy sector in Maluku. The hope is that these brilliant ideas will continue to evolve through collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, making a real contribution to sustainable energy transitions. With the enthusiasm and dedication shown, the future of renewable energy in Maluku shines brighter than ever.
