Abstract:
Increase in world population, and rising living standards and industrialisation are
driving global energy demand further upwards. To meet sustainable development goals
and energy demand, the energy sector must be transformed by deploying low-emission
energy sources and increasing the share of renewable energy. Agrivoltaics involves the
integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with agricultural activities, aiming to
enhance land-use efficiency by generating renewable energy while simultaneously
improving agricultural productivity.
This project report explores the implementation and potential benefits of
Agrivoltaics (APV) within Kerala Agricultural University. The objectives of this project
include identifying suitable sites within research stations of KAU for the deployment of
agrivoltaic systems, designing an APV system for the Regional Agricultural Research
Station (RARS) at Pattambi and estimating the number of solar panels required to meet
the energy needs of the site. KAU's extensive network of farms, ponds, buildings, and
unused lands provide ample opportunities for the successful incorporation of agrivoltaics.
By harnessing solar energy, KAU can achieve significant environmental benefits,
including water conservation, enhanced crop yields, and climate resilience, while also
contributing to the university's energy needs and supporting its commitment to
sustainable development.
A 125 kW agrivoltaic system has been designed for installation at RARS
Pattambi, with an estimated cost of Rs. 91,87,500. Mono PERC solar panels, each rated
at 555 Wp, were selected for the agrivoltaic installation along a 1 km canal bank, the only
available land for this purpose at RARS Pattambi. The proposed system will consist of
250 panels, each measuring 2384 x 1096 x 35 mm. This design aims to balance energy
production with agricultural productivity, demonstrating significant environmental
benefits such as reduced carbon emissions and improved climate resilience.
