Community preparedness studies on utilization of solar water pumping technology in Indonesian rural areas

Abstract

The role of science and technology for the country development is important to improving the quality of life, global competitiveness, strengthen national unity, creating good governance and build national identity. The research dissemination to address the problem of basic human needs such as access for energy and clean water facing many challenges. One of the problems encountered is transferring and mastering technology in the society. This paper presents the study of community preparedness on utilization of solar water pumping technology in rural areas in Indonesia. The solar water pumping system has been disseminated to encourage the implementation of renewable energy technology and to address the problem of clean water access for four rural communities which spread over Yogyakarta. Analysis of the four locations covers various aspects of socio-economic, water demand and management, community response, stakeholders and potential sustainability. The study carries out by field observations, surveys and in-depth interviews, supported by secondary data, and focus group discussion with the related stakeholders. The result indicates that the community involvement in the whole development process is very important to raise the awareness of community. Empowering community to establish water management organization is useful to regulate water distribution and maintain the technology. Continuous mentoring scheme is needed to maintain the system sustainability, and the government is expected to optimizing the training center for providing workshops and technical services for renewable energy technology.