Botswana University Achieves Groundbreaking Integration of Solar Energy and Agriculture with 1MW Agrivoltaic Project
Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) has achieved a significant milestone by completing a groundbreaking one-megawatt agrivoltaic project, showcasing a unique integration of solar energy and food production. Unlike traditional solar parks, agrivoltaics involves the dual use of land for both energy and agricultural purposes, promoting a synergy that includes water conservation.
Andreas Bottinger, CEO of MarketVest, BUAN's partner in the special purpose vehicle company AgriVolt BE, explained that the technology utilized in the project employs a single-axis tracking system for sun tracking. This innovation significantly enhances sun harvesting compared to standard fixed units. The plant also incorporates glass or glass bifacial solar panels, allowing sunlight to pass through and reflect back from both plants and soil, further boosting electricity generation.
While agrivoltaic concepts are not new, the technology applied at BUAN is considered modern and groundbreaking. According to Bottinger, it is the first of its kind in Africa, with no comparable plant worldwide, particularly one coupled to a university for research and agrivoltaic development.
The technology's advantage lies in its ability to utilize land for multiple purposes, exponentially increasing financial benefits. In the case of BUAN's AgriVoltaic plant, previously dedicated to crop cultivation, the space above crops is now utilized for energy production, preventing the loss of agricultural value.
Moreover, the agrivoltaic setup at BUAN reduces direct sunlight on plants and soil, leading to enhanced water retention, a crucial factor for sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change and extreme weather conditions. This innovative approach is anticipated to contribute significantly to water conservation, particularly as water scarcity becomes a growing concern.
On a macro level, BUAN has experienced substantial energy cost savings, reducing its reliance on the national grid. The solar power generated by BUAN under the solar rooftop program can now contribute to bolstering overall energy production in Botswana.
The 1MW agrivoltaic project, a pioneering initiative in southern Africa, not only provides power to BUAN during the day but also has the potential to reduce the university's electricity bill by more than 50 percent, according to feasibility assessments. Excess power generated can be supplied to the national grid, contributing to the country's energy needs.
This project, funded by international donors with a total investment of 15 million Botswana Pula, exemplifies a successful collaboration between the private sector and academic institutions, showcasing the potential for research and financial benefits in tandem. BUAN's agrivoltaic project serves as a beacon for sustainable energy solutions and innovative approaches to address the evolving challenges of agriculture and energy production in the context of climate change.
