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Agri-Voltaic System/Solar Farming

Solution Overview

Submitter: ICAR

Agri-voltaic system is an integrated system where food production, PV generation and rain water harvesting have been combined together on a single land unit. The system improves the land productivity specially in arid and dry lands where there are several challenges specially in the context of climate change.

What We Do

Key Features & Benefits

  • Cultivation of crops in between PV arrays as well below panel areas
  • Rainwater harvesting from the top of PV panel and recycling it
  • Modification of microclimate and creates win-win situation for both agricultural production and PV generation

Where It Works and Where It Can Work

  • Drylands and arid region of the world
  • Arable farming system with preference to short height crops
  • Farming system involving shade tolerant crops

Evidence & Impact

Agri-voltaic system with different designs and with different crops have been tested and evaluated through conducting experiments during last 8 years. Experiment shows that double row PV model is the 60% PV density at the top row is the best design. Break even period of the system is formed 8-10 years. The system can reduce CO2 footprint by about 400-500 ton CO2eha-1y-1.

Scalability & Adoption Support

The Break-even period of the system is 8-10 years whereas its life cycle is 25 years and Thus may be a successful business model. The installation and management of the system is handled by multiple expertise e.g. PV and agricultural and Thus is partner-ready.

Contact Information & Partners

Download PDF

Dr. Priyabrata Santra, Priyabrata.santra@icar.org.in, Priyabrata.iitkgp@gmail.com, Mobile: 8875288458 ICAR-CAZRI, Jodhpur

Dr. S. Poonia  poonia.surendra@gmail.com, Mobile: 9414700864

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