Agroclimatic Suitability of Biomass Sorghum in West Java, Indonesia: A CLIMEX-Based Study for Renewable Energy Development

Abstract

The global demand for renewable energy continues to rise as countries transition from fossil fuels to more sustainable alternatives in response to climate change and energy security concerns. Among various bioenergy sources, high-biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) presents promising potential due to its adaptability, rapid growth, and high biomass yield. This study evaluates the agroclimatic suitability of biomass sorghum in West Java, Indonesia, using the CLIMEX modeling framework to simulate ecoclimatic parameters and growth indices under local climatic conditions. Results show that most regions in West Java—particularly the northern lowlands—exhibit high Ecoclimatic Index (EI) values ranging from 87 to 93, indicating highly favorable conditions for sorghum cultivation. Weekly Growth Index (GIw) simulations reveal optimal growing conditions during the dry season, while certain highland and southern areas face mild limitations during the wet season due to excess rainfall or lower temperatures. Although West Java is broadly suitable for sorghum cultivation, extreme climatic variability—such as heat stress or episodic heavy rainfall—may pose localized challenges to yield stability. These findings provide a scientific foundation for region-specific bioenergy planning and contribute to the strategic development of biomass-based renewable energy in Indonesia.
Keywords: Sorghum biomass, CLIMEX, Ecoclimatic Index, Bioenergy, Climate modeling, West Java