Agrivoltaics-Pragmatic Approach to Sustainable Agriculture

This article has been written with the sole mission to advocate and create awareness for this amazing, very sensible and problem solving technology called Agro-Photovoltaics. Setting an idealistic tone to solving problems in Agriculture, latest trends, ideas or fixed theories been practiced since ages. This Climate smart technology is a sure shot winner. In this technology we see a beautiful nexus between Food, Energy and thriving Biodiversity that best describes the mutual symbiotic relationship between each of the factors of production and addresses the constant Climate Change not withstanding to mention that Climate Change is irreversible. This change needs to be addressed and efforts should be taken to bring in plausible an implementable solutions.

Research shows that Agrivoltaics brings in more innovative solution to growing unique and multiple crops based on the Morphology, Climatic conditions and the Soil type. The concept of Agrivoltaics entails evaluating the microclimatic and energetic suitability of growing crops beneath solar panels, taking into account vital factors such as vegetation growth, soil composition and characteristics, carbon sequestration capacity, and the impact of crop rotation and tillage on soil parameters like pH and Soil Organic Matter (SOM). Lot many factors also influence the vegetation and Community that lives around it. Implementation of these projects across large Solar farms, reduces the risk of land use conflicts thereby promoting dual use of land, increasing land use efficiency. Methodology use to cultivate crops underneath the Panels and in between requires careful understanding and proper designing cum placement of Panels. Apart from the study of the micro climate, the topographical nature, water table and the load of Carbon footprint. Agricultural practice with energy production happening alongside needs to be well evaluated.

Many think that growing crops at Random under the Panels is Agrivoltaics is a myth, the reality is that this technology is based on research that demands analysis and synergetic implementation of these projects. It is an inter play of the forces of nature, the technology and Food systems. Fundamentally, Agrivoltaics involves elevating solar panels (five to ten feet above ground) to accommodate plant growth underneath. Strategically positioned panels optimize sunlight filtration, while clusters are spaced for equipment accessibility and supplemental sunlight.?

This configuration supports diverse agricultural applications, including sheep grazing, vineyards, varied crop production, and pollinator conservation. In India, Agrivoltaics remains to not extensively implemented, necessitating heightened awareness and education.?Effective implementation exceeds mere plant growth under panels; pilot projects are essential to initiate Agrivoltaics development. From Brocolli, to Lettuce, Beetroot, Peppers, Potatoes, Berries and Legumes. This technology is far efficient to create that right micro climate for crops that require partial or full shading, or support cropping in rows parallel to the arrays.?

For Arid and Semi Arid regions, Agrivoltaics can prove to be highly beneficial. This technology improves soil health and helps retain moisture, reduces evaporation from the soil and enables transpiration from the crops which furthers the process of their healthy growth even when the temperatures are extremely high and harsh.?This technology is a true game changer and leads to good Soil Fauna and limits the degree of Water Stress that occurs due to high temperature in these regions.?

As per Science Direct Agrivoltaics can be explained in three ways:

• Impact on yield is highly variable between crop and geographical location.
• Plants considered intolerant to shading could be grown under solar panels under certain conditions.
• Benefits of Agrivoltaics are also linked to reduced water consumption, improved crop protection and increased animal welfare.

CASE EXAMPLE

Interpretation: A study into this project found that the quality of the broccoli was not any lower than that of broccoli grown in the traditional way. Nor was there any significant change in its taste. This example has been taken from one of the articles published with World economic form to make you understand how this temperature can enhance the quality, growing condition and appeal of some of the crops under the Panels.

???? OORJAgram INDIA (P) Ltd. is actively working in this space providing turnkey energy solutions and services like On Ground Research, Consultancy and Implementation for all Agri-Energy based projects in India. Organizations looking to conduct Pilot study or seeking consultations on how such projects be analysed and designed can write to us at [email protected] You can also join the tribe of Agrivoltaics enthusiasts, Experts and Practitioner's by clicking on https://www.dhirubhai.net/groups/9544122/