Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) continues to show its commitment in supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through environmentally friendly technology innovation. The implementation of cooperation with Gridwiz, a South Korea-based company, was implemented through the Solar Powered Personal Mobility Sharing Project. The memorandum of understanding was signed in September 2023, with the aim to support environmental preservation and reduce carbon emissions.

Dr. Shin Seoungha, CEO of Gridwiz in an exclusive interview with the Unram Public Relations Team on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 explained the implementation details of this project. “We plan to charge this e-bike using solar photovoltaic (PV) panels integrated with a battery charging system. The battery can be replaced regularly at the available charging station and will be helped by our staff. This project aims to reduce carbon emissions through the use of clean energy, replacing fossil fuels to produce cleaner air with affordable prices,” explained Dr. Shin.

Dr. Shin also highlighted the close collaboration between Gridwiz and Unram, “Although our company is based in South Korea, the system was developed at Unram, involving Unram students and alumni. We provide funding for human resource development and other technology supplied by the Indonesian side, making it a win-win solution for Indonesia and Korea.”

Unram Rector, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D. emphasized that this is one of Unram’s real steps in supporting SDGs.

“This cooperation is Unram’s real step in realizing a green campus that supports environmental sustainability. With this project, we not only support the reduction of carbon emissions, but also provide opportunities for students to be involved in the development of innovative technologies. This is the form of Unram’s commitment to become a campus that contributes significantly in supporting SDGs,” said Prof. Bambang.

Currently, these e-bikes are available in two campus locations, the BPU Building and the Faculty of Economics and Business, with plans to expand to cover all existing faculties with a total of 500 e-bikes available on campus.

For the next six months, the use of these electric bicycles will be limited to the Unram campus area for the trial phase and system refinement. After that, the project will be developed more widely, not only in Lombok but also in Indonesia and Asia.

The project will also be equipped with a smart application that is entering the trial and error stage. The application is planned to be officially launched in February 2025 and has various features, such as calculating mileage, calories burned, and the amount of carbon emissions reduced.

Through synergy with Gridwiz, Unram not only plays an active role in the development of green technology, but also becomes a pioneer in supporting environmental sustainability, in line with SDGs goals. This project is expected to have a long-term positive impact on the campus, community, and the world.