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This initiative was funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) Batch II under its Community-Based Empowerment scheme. The implementation team was led by Dr. Yoyo Suhaya, with team members Eka Mulya Alamsyah, Ph.D., and Noviana Budianti, Ph.D. The presentation session was also attended by Ihak Sumardi, Ph.D., and Dr. Atmawi Darwis, strengthening the academic transfer of knowledge to the community.

Dr. Yoyo Suhaya explained that Ciamis was chosen as the location due to its significant potential. According to 2024 BPS data, Ciamis is a major center for community forest timber production, with an area of approximately 28,000 hectares and a production volume of 325,000 m³. "Assuming a 50% yield from the sawmill industry, this generates about 161,500 m³ of waste in the form of wood scraps and sawdust," said Dr. Yoyo. This abundant waste is the target for processing into higher-value products like wood pellets.

Wood Pellets: A Profitable Future Energy Source

Wood pellets are a solid biomass fuel in a cylindrical shape, made from compacted sawdust or other wood waste through a high-pressure pressing process. Its advantages are diverse, ranging from high energy efficiency and low moisture content to lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Dr. Yoyo added that the global trend of using wood pellets as a renewable energy source is on the rise. "Biomass energy, including wood pellets, will replace coal. This is already happening in China, Korea, and Japan," he explained. Indonesia itself has a policy mandating a minimum of 5% co-firing of wood pellets as a substitute for coal in Steam Power Plants (PLTU).

From Waste to a Ready-to-Use Product

During the training, participants from KUBE Mandiri Sejahtera were provided with comprehensive material on the technology and production process of wood pellets. The main stages include:

1. Raw Material Preparation: Sawdust waste is collected and dried until its moisture content reaches about 12%.
2. Grinding and Compaction: The sawdust is then compacted using a pelletizer machine to form small cylinders.
3. Cooling: Freshly produced pellets have a high temperature (around 70-90°C) and need to be cooled to maintain their strength and quality.
4. Packaging: After cooling, the pellets are screened to separate dust and non-uniform products, then packaged in various sizes, such as 5 kg and 10 kg, ready for the market.

KUBE Mandiri Sejahtera, established in 2024, does not yet own its production machinery. However, through this program, SITH ITB has committed to providing the necessary equipment, which is currently on order. "Our program package includes both practical training and the provision of machinery. The hands-on production practice will commence once the machine arrives," stated Dr. Yoyo.

Fostering Sustainable Local Economic Growth

The Head of Selamanik Village, Yayat Ruhiyat, warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that the collaboration with ITB will continue for the community's advancement. This program serves as a vital bridge for applying appropriate technology to optimally utilize local resources.

With a broad market potential—from household needs and small to medium-sized enterprises (such as tofu and snack factories in Ciamis) to export opportunities, the wood pellet business is expected to become a significant source of additional income for KUBE members. Furthermore, this initiative has the potential to sustainably boost the economy of Selamanik Village while supporting the transition to more environmentally friendly energy.