Researchers at the University of Tasmania (UTAS) have found that agrivoltaic systems, which combine solar panels with agriculture, can improve agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. The study examined the impact of solar panel sunlight interception on soil moisture, drought resilience, electricity generation, and agrifood production in Australia, Iran, and Chad. The results suggest that agrivoltaics can provide a viable solution for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). The researchers found that diminishing annual rainfall boosts the benefits of electricity generation and agriculture, making agrivoltaics more beneficial in arid regions. The study urges policymakers to incentivize the deployment of agrivoltaic systems in these regions by attracting public and private investment. The findings suggest that agrivoltaics can provide scope for economic growth and climate action regardless of socio-economic development status. The research paper, “Agrivoltaics as an SDG Enabler,” highlights the potential benefits of agrivoltaics and encourages policymakers to consider the technology as a solution for achieving SDGs.
Researchers in Australia claim that agrivoltaic systems can significantly boost farming in arid regions, pending further study.
