As 2025 is now just two months away, the new year signals a call for humanity to accelerate the development and research of renewable energy. This urgency is driven by the drastic climate and ecosystem changes impacting the Earth, highlighting renewable energy as a vital breakthrough for sustainable improvement.

As a university focused on advancing science and technology, Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) took the initiative to organize Webinar #45 on “Implementing New Materials in Renewable Energy.” The event featured two distinguished experts in energy conversion: Prof. Dr. Ir. Awaludin Martin, S.T., M.T., from Universitas Riau, and Dr. Anggito Pringgo Tetuko, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). The webinar was moderated by Mr. Angga Nanda, S.T., M.T.

The event began with a welcoming address by the Vice Rector I of Universitas Dian Nusantara, Mr. Ir. Margono Sugeng, M.Sc., emphasizing that environmentally friendly and highly efficient materials and renewable energy sources can enhance durability and reduce production costs. He cited examples such as the development of iodine-based solar panels and advancements in wind power turbines, along with ongoing initiatives in lithium-ion battery research and electric vehicles (EV). This webinar aimed to inspire UNDIRA students to contribute actively to renewable energy development.

In the first session, Dr. Anggito Pringgo Tetuko, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., presented his research on advanced materials for thermal management in fuel cells. In thermal management systems, temperature regulation is essential to enhance device performance, prolong lifespan, and reduce maintenance costs. He highlighted the use of heat pipes to regulate temperature through evaporation, noting that the arrangement and materials of heat pipes affect device efficiency and maintenance. Dr. Tetuko also discussed the importance of computer simulations in studying thermal management systems, emphasizing how infrared imaging allows engineers to monitor thermal conductivity and circulation. The comparison of records and characterization plays a key role in designing effective thermal management systems.

The second session, led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Awaludin Martin, S.T., M.T., focused on the pressing issue that conventional energy sources, particularly fossil fuels, are projected to be depleted within the next 10-20 years. He pointed out that coal-fired power plants (PLTU) contribute almost 50% of air pollution. To mitigate this impact, biofuel blending with coal is being explored. Additionally, Indonesia's Law No. 30 of 2007 mandates a gradual reduction in conventional energy use. Prof. Awaludin underscored the importance of regulations on New and Renewable Energy and the global push towards net-zero emissions, emphasizing that effective strategies can reduce carbon emissions through CO2 regulation via photosynthesis.

As a renewable alternative, Prof. Awaludin proposed natural gas storage solutions, although these ideas present challenges in storage and temperature regulation. Adsorption processes play a crucial role in gas management, with materials like silica gel, activated carbon, and zeolites used to reduce excessive pressure within containers.

With a focus on efficiency, environmental sustainability, and material innovation, researchers and academics continue to work on solutions for global energy challenges. Through collaboration among research, industry, and public policy, UNDIRA students are encouraged to contribute to building a better and more eco-friendly energy system for the future.