Maximizing Renewable Energy Assets in a Tourism Village in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

¹ Master of Environmental Science, The Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
² Graduate School of Environmental Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

The pursuit of energy independence often relies on decentralized Renewable Energy Technology (RET) systems. This study examines the performance gap between installed potential and actual utilization of village-scale renewable energy system in Desa Donoharjo, Sleman, Yogyakarta, recognized as an Independent Energy Village ( Desa Energi Berdikari). Although the village processes considerable renewable resources and supporting infrastructure, several systems operate below their optimal potential, raising concerns regarding their long-term sustainability and effectiveness. A mixed-method approach combined descriptive-comparative performance analysis of installed capacity and actual utilization with field observations and semi-structured interviews, followed by thematic analysis and data triangulation. The results reveal varying performance levels across the renewable energy systems. The solar photovoltaic system operates close to its expected potential, indicating relatively effective adoption and management. In contrast, the biodigester system demonstrates a substantial utilization gap between estimated and actual energy output. The findings indicate that the main constraints are socio-technical rather than purely technological, including limited technical skills, reliance on manual operational practices, an insufficient monitoring system, and delayed maintenance. Overall, the study concludes that the effectiveness of village-scale renewable energy initiatives depends not only on technological availability but also on the readiness of the local socio-technical system. Strengthening local technical capacity, improving monitoring mechanisms, and enhancing community-based operational management are essential to optimize system performance and ensure the long-term sustainability of renewable energy development in rural communities.