Agrovoltaic Systems: A Sustainable Synergy for Optimizing Water Use, Crop Productivity, and Renewable Energy Generation in Characato-Arequipa, Peru (2024) (#1252)

Authors

Velarde Allazo, Edwar Andres

Zegarra Pacheco, Ricardo Esteban

Nuñez Lazo, Cielo Daniela

Abstract

Global demographic growth is increasing the demand for food and energy resources, especially in the context of climate change challenges. This scenario has driven the need for sustainable and innovative solutions that allow for balancing human development with ecosystem conservation. Agrovoltaic systems, which combine solar energy production with agricultural activity, emerge as an option to optimize the use of natural resources and land. This research compares the impact of agrovoltaic systems and traditional systems in terms of crop productivity, water consumption, and energy efficiency. The study was conducted in Characato, Arequipa, Peru, using monitoring tools to measure climatic and agricultural variables during the cultivation of lettuce (Cichorium Endiviaen). The results show that agrovoltaic systems optimize water efficiency and reduce thermal stress in crops, maintaining agronomic performance similar to traditional systems. The partial shade provided by the solar panels reduced evapotranspiration rates, achieving a water saving of up to 30% compared to conventional methods. In conclusion, agrovoltaic systems emerge as a sustainable strategy that integrates water management, land use optimization, agricultural production, and renewable energy generation, representing an innovative solution to address challenges related to food security, water scarcity, and the energy transitionit