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Renewable energy

Agrivoltaic Systems Offer Sustainable Solution for Agricultural Challenges

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A new study published in Energy for Sustainable Development has shown that Agrivoltaic Systems (APVS) can be a viable solution for agricultural challenges in Mexico City, particularly in the Xochimilco area. The research by the National University of Misiones (UNAM) highlights the benefits of APVS in reducing energy poverty, aquifer contamination, and reliance on fossil fuels for irrigation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study evaluates three scenarios: Business As Usual (BAU) using fossil fuel-dependent pumps, APVS-powered electric pumping, and APVS with integrated water treatment.
  • Replacing fossil fuel pumps with APVS reduces operational costs by 60-70%, yielding a net present value (NPV) of $8900 per system and mitigating 12.6 tCO2e annually.
  • Integrating water treatment requires initial subsidies to offset high capital costs ($114 million USD for 3500 systems), but enhances crop quality and market value.
  • The study demonstrates APVS's scalability, with potential deployment across 3500 chinampas (traditional farms), saving 11 million USD in fuel costs and reducing 44,100 tCO2e annually.
  • The integrated assessment framework developed in this study provides a replicable model for evaluating renewable energy solutions in contaminated agricultural contexts worldwide.

Statistics:

  • By 2050, food production must increase by 60%, but projections show yields may decline by 10%, worsening resource scarcity.
  • APVS-powered pumping reduces operational costs by 60-70% and yields a NPV of $8900 per system.
  • APVS with integrated water treatment requires initial subsidies of $114 million USD for 3500 systems.
  • APVS deployment across 3500 chinampas can save 11 million USD in fuel costs and reduce 44,100 tCO2e annually.
  • The study estimates that 12.6 tCO2e can be mitigated annually by replacing fossil fuel pumps with APVS.

Sources:

  • Technical and Economic Analysis for the Implementation of Photovoltaic Systems In Agricultural Zones of Mexico City: a Case Study. Energy for Sustainable Development, 2025; 87.
  • National University of Misiones (UNAM)
  • Elsevier - www.elsevier.com
  • Energy for Sustainable Development - www.journals.elsevier.com/energy-for-sustainable-development/

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