Off-Grid Smart Hydroponics - PART 1: Market Survey and Concept Generation

Anas Abdul Rahman; Muhammad Amirul Akmal Mohd Zaidi; Ayu Abdul Rahman; Nuraffini Mohd Rashidi; Khor Jian Yong; Nesanraj A/L Selvaraju; Nur Syazwani Nur Shafarizam

doi:10.58915/aset.v4i2.2512

Authors

Anas Abdul Rahman Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Muhammad Amirul Akmal Mohd Zaidi Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Ayu Abdul Rahman Universiti Utara Malaysia
Nuraffini Mohd Rashidi Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Khor Jian Yong Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Nesanraj A/L Selvaraju Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Nur Syazwani Nur Shafarizam Universiti Malaysia Perlis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58915/aset.v4i2.2512

Keywords:

Hydroponic automation, Educational hydroponics, IoT-based smart farming, Off-grid farming, Solar-powered system

Abstract

Rural schools in Malaysia often face limited access to electricity, water, and hands-on STEM learning resources, constraining practical agricultural education. This paper details the design and validation of an off-grid smart hydroponic system developed for a rural Malaysian school through the Service-Learning Malaysia - University for Society (SULAM) programme. Utilising the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), the system is designed to operate without reliance on grid electricity or piped water by incorporating seven integrated modules which are solar energy supply, environmental sensing, automated pH control, water level monitoring, nutrient dosing, pest deterrence, and IoT-based data feedback. It features dual-microcontroller control, efficient power use and a user-friendly interface accessible to non-technical users. The modular A-frame structure supports 64 plant sites within a compact footprint, optimised for mobility, and educational use. Field deployment at Maahad Tahfiz Sains Darul Muttaqin (MASDAR) achieved a 94% plant survival rate with daily energy consumption below 100 Wh, all without chemical intervention. The system’s autonomous function, sustainable energy input, and low maintenance design offer a practical model for smart agriculture and STEM learning in under-resourced settings. The project supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2, 4, and 7 by enabling food security, education, and clean energy access through integrated green technology.

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