PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF TROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

The rapid increase in urbanisation has led to a reduction in productive agricultural land, driving the need for modern agricultural innovations that are efficient and environmentally friendly. This study aims to design an LED grow light system using solar power to support the growth of pak choy (Brassica rapa L.) plants using the hydroponic tower system (HTS) method in a greenhouse. This solar power system utilises the potential of solar energy in the Lubuk Alung area, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The study was conducted by comparing plant growth between the LED grow light system treatment and control plants without an LED. The parameters observed included plant height, leaf length, leaf width, and number of leaves. This system integrates natural light with artificial lighting from LEDs for 3 hours at night to extend the duration of plant photosynthesis. The maximum sunlight intensity is 1180.26W/m² with an electrical power generated around 3045.07 watts. The average solar panel efficiency reaches 20% with peak power occurring at 11:00-12:00 WIB. The results showed that plants supplemented with LED lighting exhibited significantly better growth than control plants. Analysis indicated that this system requires a relatively high initial investment but has potential benefits through increased productivity and pesticide-free crop quality. This research proves that the use of renewable energy in modern agricultural systems can be a practical, efficient, and sustainable solution to meet food needs in urban areas.