Community Service on Solar PV Integration for Smart Farming Irrigation Systems in Islamic Boarding Schools

Abstract

The adoption of renewable energy technologies in agriculture is essential for promoting sustainable development in rural educational institutions. This community service initiative was carried out at an Islamic boarding school with the aim of integrating a solar photovoltaic (PV)-powered smart irrigation system to support food production and environmental awareness. The project was designed not only to improve water-use efficiency but also to serve as a living laboratory for students. A series of site assessments, technical measurements, and infrastructure evaluations were conducted to ensure system compatibility with the local topography and farming conditions. Key methods included field observation, readiness assessment of water tower structures, and detailed planning of pump installation using real-time measurements. The results revealed that the site has suitable spatial layout, stable infrastructure, and consistent water availability to support a gravity-fed irrigation system. A significant finding is the feasibility of combining existing school farming activities with solar-based automation without disrupting the educational environment. The novelty of this work lies in its interdisciplinary approach, which bridges renewable energy engineering, smart agriculture, and religious-based education. The system design is context-sensitive, scalable, and replicable for similar institutions. In conclusion, this project successfully demonstrates that small-scale smart farming powered by solar PV can be technically and socially integrated in boarding school settings, offering both environmental and educational benefits. The authors recommend further monitoring of system performance and exploration of digital sensor integration in future phases.