Background: The government is optimistic that Indonesia is able to be energy independent because Indonesia has a variety of energy sources that can be utilized for the benefit of the nation and state, both fossil and non-fossil energy sources, including solar energy through solar power system. The solar power system or photovoltaic system is an eco-friendly option usually applied to meet the need for energy due to its lower carbon footprint when compared to fossil-fueled power plants. This research was, therefore, used to conduct a techno-economic and regulatory impact analysis on a rooftop photovoltaic system installed in a mosque in Purworejo, Indonesia under a net metering mechanism.
Result: The installation was aimed at reducing entire carbon emission from the annual energy usage which is an equivalent of 4 tons of carbon dioxide. The research shows that the economic feasibility of the photovoltaic systems, measured by the Net Present Value (NPV) of the electricity bill saving are negative values for all the configurations based on the type and number of panels. This low financial attractiveness was observed to be due to several unsupportive regulations such as subsidized electricity tariff, minimum grid electricity usage limit, and less-rewarding net metering scheme. The research also suggests that the abolishment of the minimum usage limit was discovered to have incurred the greatest increase of NPV to the photovoltaic system designed to entirely supply the load demand while the implementation of a higher electricity tariff caused the highest increase of NPV for the photovoltaic systems with partial supply scenario.
Conclusion: Finally, it is financially unfeasible to install a photovoltaic system on the mosque rooftop at the current electricity tariff, costs of components, and regulations implemented concerning the adoption of the system. As a constraint, the power regulation in Indonesia should be reviewed significantly to support any buildings of worship to develop their opportunities for managing energy systems independently. The potential implication is that they would be able to contribute their social economic role in supporting their really crucial community daily life energy. This approach is in line with the government policy and strengthening the sustainable development goals.