Empowering Rural Education: A Comprehensive Study on the Implementation and Cost Analysis of Standalone Photovoltaic Systems in Sarawak Schools

This study explores the implementation of standalone photovoltaic (SAPV) systems to address electricity supply challenges in rural schools in Sarawak. In off-grid areas lacking reliable power access, especially in remote regions, conventional diesel generators are often used, leading to drawbacks for residential communities and schools. To overcome this, the research focuses on the technical, economic, and user experience aspects of SAPV systems, emphasizing renewable energy resources. The proposed SAPV system design for schools in Bintulu, Sarawak includes sizing components such as PV arrays, battery storage, charge controller, and inverter. The assessment determines an ideal PV module for specific schools based on factors such as load demands and cost estimates, without explicitly mentioning the product's name. Despite higher costs for schools with greater energy requirements, this research provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to implement alternative energy sources in rural areas.