Amid rising power outages in rural areas, a high school student has\nproposed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based solution at a\nJakarta-level student innovation forum.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the Jakarta Scholars Symposium (JSS) 2026, Elaine Wynette\nWijaya, a student from Pelita Harapan Senior High School in Karawaci,\npresented research on using AI to prevent large-scale blackouts in\nvillages.<\/p>\n
She highlighted outages in regions such as Papua, Aceh, and\nLombok.<\/p>\n
According to her research, challenging geography, fragile\ntransmission infrastructure, and high reliance on microgrids make many\nvillages prone to recurring blackouts.<\/p>\n
\u201cPower outages are not just about lack of lighting but have become a\nmultidimensional crisis hindering economic productivity, healthcare\nservices, and education in rural communities,\u201d Elaine said in Jakarta on\nWednesday (27 May 2026).<\/p>\n
Through AI approaches using machine learning, deep learning, and\nreinforcement learning, she explained that smart systems can predict\nenergy consumption patterns, detect grid faults within seconds, and\nautomatically adjust power distribution.<\/p>\n
Elaine stated that applying AI to rural power systems could reduce\noutage frequency by up to 15% and cut operational costs by 25.6%. The\ntechnology is also expected to speed up power restoration after grid\ndamage.<\/p>\n
\u201cAI offers real hope to end the long-standing cycle of outages that\nburden rural communities,\u201d Elaine said.<\/p>\n
She noted that one challenge in developing the technology is limited\ndata access from various regions in Indonesia. Data is crucial for\ncreating accurate AI models to support the national power system.<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope to collaborate with NGOs or the government to gain data\naccess from other cities to develop AI models, particularly through\nmicrogrid development,\u201d Elaine said.<\/p>\n
She also urged direct testing of AI microgrid systems in villages to\nprove their effectiveness on the ground.<\/p>\n
She explained that microgrids can help stabilise and improve energy\ndistribution, especially in areas prone to power disruptions.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith AI support, the system is expected to predict faults, manage\nenergy distribution, and reduce blackout risks more quickly and\neffectively,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Elaine is optimistic her idea can be implemented in Indonesia as\nsimilar technologies are already used in countries like Australia.\n\u201cHowever, collaboration with experts is key to developing this\ntechnology. I need to work with professionals in this field,\u201d she\nadded.<\/p>\n
Elaine also recommended that the government strengthen collaboration\nbetween universities, researchers, and local authorities to support AI\ndevelopment in the energy sector.<\/p>\n
\u201cIndonesia has many professors and intellectuals. By partnering with\nuniversities and governments in various cities, we can combine data to\ncreate practical solutions,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, she hopes her research will benefit not only Indonesia\nbut also be applicable globally.<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope this research, particularly the low-cost AI models and sensor\nsystems, can help not just our country but others worldwide. The main\nissue so far has been the high cost of AI and sensors. With more\naffordable technology, I hope countries can connect and collaborate\nbetter,\u201d she concluded.<\/p>\n
JSS is an independent forum providing a platform for students to\npresent innovative ideas and projects on key issues in Indonesia. This\nyear, JSS featured nine students covering topics from the environment,\nhealth, energy, to social empowerment. (H-2)<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/ai-technology-could-solve-rural-blackouts-1779897221", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }