This research would interrogate the transition from anti-nuclear movements to the emphasis on alternative energy sources in Central Java, Indonesia. This research will particularly address the extent that the mass protest against the construction of Muria nuclear power plant in 2007 shaped the development of micro-hydro technologies and how micro-hydro technologies were being constructed, practiced, and evaluated by non-formal experts as well as formal expert actors. To conduct the data, this research plans to deploy social science and humanities research methods that emphasize qualitative approaches. The methods will include, but not be limited to: interview, observation and site visits, desk research and literature research, and participatory action research. My research assistants and I will be having a field visit in rural areas in Central Java, Indonesia where the local people protested against the construction of nuclear power plant and developed alternative energy.

Drawing on combined science and technology studies (STS) theoretical frameworks including the sociotechnical (systems based on a mixture of people, technology and their environment) of the energy system, citizen science, and knowledge justice with qualitative research methods, this research will present the engagement of the ordinary citizens with the experts in decision-making process of energy transformation which not only aligns with democratic model but also strengthens social relations. This research would be a detailed examination account of social governance of energy transformation in Central Java, Indonesia where geographically the country is still underrepresented in the literature of citizen science as well as energy transformation. Lastly, I will also use the result of the research for productive debates and discussions about citizen science.

Note: Given the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic, I anticipate the worst scenarios by using online interviews and online workshops in this research. [Sep. 2020]