Agrivoltaics as a method of adapting agriculture in Egypt to an arid climate

Egyptian farmers are facing water scarcity and rising temperatures, which negatively impact yield. In response to these challenges, two pilot projects have been launched in the country to introduce agrivoltaics. The technology involves installing solar panels directly over agricultural land. This allows for the simultaneous generation of clean electricity and the creation of shade, which reduces moisture evaporation and mitigates the impact of heat on plants.

Specialists from the 3E company, which is participating in the initiative, note that there is no universal guide for implementing agrivoltaics yet, so the projects are aimed at finding optimal solutions for local communities. Experiments include the use of various panel layout schemes. For example, a "staggered" installation pattern provides access to sunlight for plants, which is necessary for their normal development, although it generates less energy compared to dense solar farms.

Studies show that such shading can promote the growth of many crops adapted to low-light conditions. Preliminary results from the Habiba Community farm in South Sinai show positive trends: in particular, watermelons are developing well. Options for using transparent solar panels that allow light to pass through while continuing to generate electricity are also being considered.

In addition to plant protection, agrivoltaics solves energy challenges. Currently, the generated electricity is used to power irrigation systems, but in the future, it is planned to be used to power desalination plants, which will allow for more effective use of the region's brackish water. The program provides for the collection of data on the effectiveness of such a combination of agriculture and energy for further scaling of the technology. According to representatives of the Habiba Community, this approach resolves the conflict between using land for energy production and traditional crop production, allowing both activities to be combined on the same plot.