Indonesia implements solar-powered water purification and expands piped networks

In Pandeglang, Banten, new technology is being used to address clean water shortages in coastal areas. Through the ‘Solar Water for Ummah’ program, developed by MyFundAction and University of Indonesia students, saltwater is being converted into fresh water using reverse osmosis (RO) powered by solar panels. This system utilizes a semipermeable membrane to separate water from salt and contaminants.

Separately, experts are calling for an accelerated expansion of urban piped water networks in Indonesia to mitigate climate change risks and groundwater depletion. Officials note that relying on individual wells increases vulnerability to drought and contributes to land subsidence, particularly in areas like Jakarta. Transitioning to piped systems that utilize surface water—such as rivers and reservoirs—is proposed as a more sustainable and affordable alternative to bottled water and groundwater extraction.