Utilization of Coffee Grounds-Based Eco Briquettes as an Alternative Energy Source for Coffee Shop Enterprises in Aceh Barat Regency

Abstract

This community service program aims to enhance the capacity of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) producing briquettes from spent coffee grounds in West Aceh Regency, as part of efforts to support the transition to renewable energy and sustainable economic development. The challenges faced by local MSMEs include limited technical knowledge in waste processing, low production efficiency, and insufficient use of digital technology for product marketing. To address these issues, a participatory approach was employed through a series of technical training sessions, cleaner production mentoring, and digital marketing workshops based on social media platforms. The implementation methods included technical training on processing coffee grounds into eco-friendly briquettes, focusing on drying raw materials, mixing with optimal binder compositions (4–12%), molding, and efficient combustion techniques. The cleaner production concept was applied to minimize production waste and optimize the reuse of materials. Digital marketing sessions aimed to strengthen branding, promotional content creation, and the use of e-commerce platforms such as WhatsApp Business, Facebook, and Instagram. Program effectiveness was evaluated using pre- and post-tests, field observations, and focus group discussions (FGDs) with local communities. The results showed a significant increase in participants' technical capacity, with 85% of MSMEs successfully applying more efficient production techniques and producing higher-quality briquettes characterized by more uniform moisture and density. The implementation of cleaner production reduced production waste by up to 30% and decreased water usage in the binder mixing process. In terms of marketing, around 70% of participants successfully created digital business accounts and began marketing products online, which led to increased demand from outside the village. The program also triggered social change, as the community began to view coffee waste as an economic resource. Several farmer groups even established partnerships with MSMEs to provide a sustainable supply of raw materials. The integration of participatory approaches, cleaner production technology, and digital transformation has proven effective in strengthening the competitiveness of MSMEs in the alternative energy sector. This mentoring model is suitable for replication in other regions with similar organic waste characteristics to support inclusive and sustainable green economic development.