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AGRIVOLTAIC FARMING

9th November, 2024

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Context:

The 7th Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), held in New Delhi from November 3 to 6, 2024, focused on accelerating solar energy deployment across its Member Countries, particularly in regions with limited energy access.

About Agrivoltaic farming

Practice Name

Growing crops underneath solar panels.

Alternative Names

Agrisolar, Dual use solar, Low impact solar.

Primary Focus

Simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and solar energy generation.

Where is Agrivoltaic farming already in use?

Agrivoltaic farming is the use of land for both agriculture and solar photovoltaic energy generation. It is also referred to as Agricola, which is a dual-use, low-impact solar. Solar grazing is a variation where livestock graze in and around solar panels.

  • Researchers in South Korea have been growing broccoli underneath photovoltaic panels.
  • The panels are positioned 2-3 metres off the ground and sit at an angle of 30 degrees, providing shade and offering crops protection from the weather.
  • For example, An Agrivoltaic farming project in Kenya is using solar panels held several metres off the ground, with gaps in between them.

 

Working of Agrivoltaic Farming

Elevated Panels

Solar panels are raised 2-3 meters, allowing crops to grow underneath with sufficient light and air circulation.

Angle and Spacing

Panels are angled (30 degrees) and spaced to optimize sunlight for both solar energy production and crop growth.

Shade and Protection

Provides shade, reducing heat stress on crops and protecting them from harsh weather conditions.

Water Conservation

Shading reduces evaporation, conserving soil moisture and lowering the water requirements for crops.

Greenhouse Integration

Panels installed on greenhouse roofs allow light and rain to reach crops while generating solar energy.

Dual Harvesting

Utilizes land for both agriculture and solar energy, maximizing overall productivity and resource efficiency.

Significance of Agrivoltaic Farming

Enhanced Land Use

Maximizes land efficiency by combining agricultural activities with solar energy production on the same plot.

Climate Resilience

Offers shade to crops, reducing heat stress, conserving water, and providing protection from extreme weather.

Renewable Energy Generation

Contributes to the expansion of solar power, aligning with climate goals and energy demands.

Increased Food Security

Supports sustainable food production for a growing population without needing additional farmland.

Economic Benefits

Allows farmers to diversify income by generating revenue from both crops and solar energy.

READ ABOUT

Agrovoltaics or dual-use solar in India

INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE

Source:

NEWSONAIR

 

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Agrivoltaic farming, a practice combining solar energy generation and agriculture, holds significant potential for sustainable development. Discuss the working mechanism of agrivoltaic systems and analyze their potential benefits. (250 words)

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