@Article{ee.2026.080751,
AUTHOR = {Miftakhul Maulidina, Erna Daniati},
TITLE = {The Development of Very Low Frequency Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) in Determining Soil Zones for Renewable Energy Infrastructure Optimization},
JOURNAL = {Energy Engineering},
VOLUME = {},
YEAR = {},
NUMBER = {},
PAGES = {{pages}},
URL = {http://www.techscience.com/energy/online/detail/27284},
ISSN = {1546-0118},
ABSTRACT = {The global energy transition toward net-zero emissions requires the massive development of renewable energy infrastructure. However, the efficiency and safety of installations such as wind turbines, solar panels, and energy storage systems are highly dependent on subsurface physical characteristics. Neglecting geological structures such as active faults or corrosive zones, risks structural failure and electrical system malfunctions. This research proposes the use of the Very Low Frequency Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) method as a fast and non-destructive geophysical screening tool. This method utilizes low-frequency signals to map variations in subsurface electrical conductivity. Furthermore, the data were processed using the Karous-Hjelt filter to identify fault structures and apparent current densities. Next, 2D inversion modeling was performed to visualize depth cross-sections and determine soil layer stability. The mapping results were classified into three risk zones that correlate directly with future energy needs. The yellow zone (stable) is a priority for heavy structure development (turbines/panels). The orange zone (transition) is an area for transmission lines and electric mobility. Meanwhile, the blue zone (conductive) represents areas to be avoided for heavy loads, but can be optimized as grounding points to protect the smart grid from lightning strikes. The targets and impacts of this research are cost efficiency, infrastructure safety, and sustainability. Based on the Karous-Hjelt filtering and 2D inversion images, area 4 is highly conductive, as indicated by the predominance of blue tones in this zone. Meanwhile, area 3 is the most resistive, marked by a predominance of yellow and orange. In terms of cost efficiency, this approach reduces initial geotechnical survey costs through electromagnetic screening methods. For infrastructure safety, it minimizes the risk of damage to sensitive electronic devices in electric vehicles and energy storage systems through grounding system optimization. Regarding sustainability, this provides a roadmap for energy developers to select the most geophysically stable and safe locations in Indonesia. This research demonstrates that the synergy between electromagnetic waves and energy technology is the key to creating an energy ecosystem that is not only clean but also safe for subsurface structures.},
DOI = {10.32604/ee.2026.080751}
}