Layanan Listrik Pelanggan Berbagi Menggunakan Sistem Koin

Abstract

This study aims to design and analyze the effectiveness of a coin-based shared electricity service system for street vendors at the traditional market on Jalan Danau Poso, Binjai Timur. The primary problem faced by vendors is limited access to electricity, which is typically obtained from nearby houses with inconsistent and often unfair pricing that does not reflect actual energy consumption. The developed coin-operated electricity system provides two separate sockets that can be used independently by two vendors. Each Rp1,000 coin inserted provides a credit of 450 Watt-hours (Wh), and the remaining balance is displayed on an LCD screen to help users monitor their consumption in real-time. This research employs a descriptive method with a field study approach, direct observation, and a comparative analysis of energy consumption between two types of vendors with different usage patterns. The findings indicate that the system promotes fairness and efficiency in energy usage and proves to be more cost-effective for vendors with lower power consumption. From the service provider’s perspective, the system is also financially viable, with a stable profit margin since the system’s electricity rate (Rp2,222/kWh) is higher than the base rate from PLN (Rp1,352/kWh). This coin-based electricity system is proven to be an effective micro-energy solution for traditional market environments. It is not only easy to operate but also enhances vendor independence, ensures transparency in electricity usage, and offers sustainable business opportunities in the small-scale energy sector.