Agrophotovoltaics
an innovative approach to agricultural and energy sustainability
Keywords:
Cultivation under photovoltaic systems, Climate change, Sustainable development, Environmental impactAbstract
Agrophotovoltaics (APV) is an innovative technology that combines solar energy generation with agricultural activities, offering solutions to critical challenges such as food security, sustainable energy production, and climate change mitigation. This article explores how APV aligns with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and presents global and Uruguay-specific opportunities. APV has demonstrated its ability to significantly increase land-use efficiency by allowing solar panels to coexist with crops, which can stabilize both food and energy production simultaneously. Countries such as Germany, India, and Chile have implemented successful pilot projects showcasing economic, social, and environmental benefits.
Uruguay, with its high solar radiation levels, is well-positioned to adopt APV. This technology offers opportunities to enhance natural resource efficiency, increase food security, and reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and energy production. The Technological University of Uruguay (UTEC) is leading research in the country to technically evaluate land, water, and energy use efficiency, as well as the economic viability of this technology in the local context.
Despite its benefits, the implementation of APV faces challenges such as initial investment costs, farmer training, and cultural acceptance, among others. Effective collaboration between government, academic, and business sectors is essential to drive research and the adoption of this technology in Uruguay.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Wellington Mezzomo, Conrado Fleck dos Santos, Luis Bahu Ben, Diego Barreto, Rogério Ricalde Torres, Santiago Jaunarena (Autor/a)
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