Yayasan SHEEP Indonesia (YSI), in collaboration with the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR), conducted Basic Renewable Energy Training for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in East Nusa Tenggara from September 28 to 29, 2026. The training involved 19 participants representing 19 CSOs, including representatives of OMB Oel Hun Fatuteta.

The training was part of an effort to improve CSOs’ understanding of the fundamental principles of renewable energy and encourage its use to meet community needs in their respective working areas.

On the first day, participants received training on the basic principles of renewable energy, with a focus on solar energy technology. The sessions covered how solar energy systems work, system components, the configuration and use of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, and methods for calculating the required power, voltage, and energy as a basis for PV system installation. Participants also explored the potential applications of renewable energy based on local conditions and community needs.

The sessions were delivered by Ikbal from IESR’s NTT NZE Program team and representatives of State Vocational High School 5 (SMK Negeri 5) Kupang. They provided an overview of the energy situation in East Nusa Tenggara, introduced the basic principles of renewable energy, and explained solar energy and the components of solar PV systems.

Solar PV Installation at OMB Oel Hun Fatuteta

On the second day, the training continued with practical sessions on the basic technical skills required for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Participants gained hands-on experience in assessing the suitability of installation sites, understanding installation procedures, and installing PV system components.

OMB Oel Hun Fatuteta was selected as a demonstration site for solar PV installation to support its local chicken farming activities. The installed system has a stated capacity of 1,100 Wp/kWp and consists of two solar panels, two batteries, and one hybrid inverter.

The practical sessions gave participants direct experience in the installation, operation, and basic maintenance of solar PV systems. Participants also learned how renewable energy can support community-based economic activities.

Encouraging OMBs to Adopt Renewable Energy

OMB Oel Hun Fatuteta is expected to serve as a model for other OMBs in utilizing and maintaining solar PV systems to support business development. The system is intended to support local chicken farming activities, which require approximately 300 watts of power.

Beyond demonstrating the practical use of renewable energy, this experience is expected to provide lessons for communities and other OMBs interested in developing businesses powered by renewable energy.

The Role of CSOs in Promoting Renewable Energy

The training also strengthened the capacity of local CSOs to share knowledge about renewable energy with communities in their respective working areas. Participants are expected to apply their newly acquired knowledge through program assistance and direct implementation in the field. These efforts aim to help communities understand the importance of renewable energy in supporting cleaner energy use and promoting a green economy.

One participant, Nitanel Manune, representing OMB Oel Hun, stated that the installed solar PV system was both a blessing and a shared responsibility. He emphasized the need to allocate part of the business profits for maintenance to ensure that the system could continue to provide benefits.

Follow-Up Plans

Follow-up activities to strengthen participants’ capacity will be carried out in accordance with developments in the field and the outcomes of the training. IESR will provide further capacity-building support based on emerging needs.

The follow-up activities will include calculating the financial benefits of using solar PV systems, receiving technical assistance from SMK Negeri 5 Kupang, and developing renewable energy programs. These activities are scheduled to begin in early November 2026.

Through this training, YSI and IESR strengthened the capacity of CSOs and OMBs to understand and apply renewable energy technologies. The knowledge and skills gained are expected to support community-based business development while encouraging the adoption of renewable energy in their respective working areas.