Harvesting Sunlight: The Promise of Agro-Photovoltaic Fusion Systems for Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy Generation

Štefan Bojnec (), Umar Daraz and Younas Khan
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Štefan Bojnec: Faculty of Management, University of Primorska, Izolska Vrata 2, SI-6000 Koper-Capodistria, Slovenia
Umar Daraz: Department of Sociology, University of Malakand, Chakdara 18800, Pakistan
Younas Khan: Department of Sociology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat 26000, Pakistan

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-29

Abstract: Utilizing the power of sunlight through agro-photovoltaic fusion systems (APFSs) seamlessly blends sustainable agriculture with renewable energy generation. This innovative approach not only addresses food security and energy sustainability but also plays a pivotal role in combating climate change. This study assesses the feasibility and impact of APFS implementation in District Dir Lower, Pakistan, a region significant for its agriculture and energy needs. A quasi-experimental design was employed, comparing outcomes between a treatment group (with an APFS) and a control group (without an APFS). Stratified random sampling was used to select 400 participants, including farmers, residents, local authorities, and community leaders. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed employing paired t -tests, linear regression, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Chi-square tests. The results show that the treatment group with an APFS exhibited significant improvements in farming practices (mean change = 4.20 vs. 2.80). Linear regression indicated a strong positive effect of APFSs on renewable energy production. The ANOVA results demonstrated significant mitigation of environmental challenges, and the Chi-square test showed a strong association between APFS implementation and community sustainability, resilience, and prosperity. It is concluded that APFS implementation significantly enhances farming practices, renewable energy production, and environmental sustainability, contributing to the resilience and prosperity of agricultural communities in District Dir Lower. These findings advocate for the broader adoption of APFSs in similar contexts to integrate sustainable agriculture with renewable energy generation.

Keywords: agro-photovoltaics fusion system implementation; sustainable agriculture; renewable energy; farming practices; environmental challenges; community sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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