Word From The Market
with Humphrey Kabade
ZIMBABWE, like many other countries, faces significant challenges due to climate change.
Global warming has disrupted rainfall patterns, making traditional farming practices difficult.
Evidently, climate change jeopardises food security.
As global temperatures continue to rise, the Government had to adopt new technologies and methods, such as the Pfumvudza/Intwasa concept, as well as adapt to the situation to ensure food security and economic stability.
One promising and sustainable solution is adoption of agrivoltaics.
Agrivoltaics — also known as agrisolar — is the dual use of land for solar energy production and agriculture.
The system regards agriculture and solar energy production as being complementary to each other, and not as competitors.
The same land used for agricultural production can now be used concurrently for solar energy generation.
For example, land can be used for growing cabbages and broccoli, among other crops, under the diffusing shade of photovoltaic panels. The shade buffers the plants from the day’s intense sunrays. It reduces air temperature and the amount of water evaporating from soils.
A symbiotic relationship occurs, as plants give off water vapour that cools off the panels from below, thereby increasing panel efficiency. Also, there is solar grazing. Livestock can graze on lucerne grown underneath the shade of solar panels.
Benefits of solar energy to farmers
Sustainable irrigation systems
Solar-powered irrigation systems can provide consistent water supply crucial for crop growth. In addition, solar panels provide a rainwater capture mechanism that farmers can take advantage of during rainy periods.
During the Zimbabwe Irrigation Investment Conference held last month, stakeholders agreed on the need to integrate solar energy into irrigation systems.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka emphasised the importance of this transition, highlighting how solar-powered pumps can draw water from rivers and underground sources to ensure that crops receive adequate moisture, even during dry spells.
This, he said, would ensure food security for families that are dependent on village business units.
Reduced operational costs
Solar energy can significantly lower power costs for farmers.
Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance, while excess energy can be fed into the national grid through the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority’s net metering programme.
This allows farmers to allocate resources to other essential areas, such as improving crop yields and purchasing better-quality seeds.
The upfront cost of setting up solar systems can be a hurdle for some farmers. However, Government initiatives and private sector financing options can ease this burden.
Exploring subsidies and bank loan schemes facilitated by the Government is crucial, as the long-term cost savings provided by solar energy, coupled with increased productivity, make it a sound investment.
It is paramount that farmers maintain adequate financial standing in the form of excellent record-keeping of farm operations and cropping history to secure private sector financing.
It is important for banks to offer loans in lieu of tangible assets, including farm machinery.
Environmental benefits
Agrivoltaics preserves native habitats and ecosystems for pollinators through maintaining ground cover and low-impact development on the soil profile.
By adopting solar power, farmers contribute to the fight against climate change, ensuring a healthier environment for future generations. Solar energy is a clean and renewable resource that reduces greenhouse gas emissions. All this is channelled towards achieving a carbon emissions net zero position, in line with an updated 40 percent reduction across all industries, including agriculture by the year 2030.
Harnessing solar energy effectively
For solar energy to be effective, proper installation and usage are crucial.
Here are some best practices for Zimbabwean farmers:
Optimal solar panel placement
Solar panels should be installed in areas with maximum sunlight exposure.
In Zimbabwe, positioning panels facing north ensures they capture the most sunlight throughout the day.
Additionally, panels should be tilted at an angle that corresponds to the latitude of the location, approximately 20 degrees to 30 degrees, to maximise efficiency.
Dual purpose of solar panels
Innovative use of solar panels includes providing shade for livestock.
By installing panels above livestock enclosures, farmers can create cool environments for animals, while generating electricity at the same time.
This dual-purpose use of solar panels not only increases farm productivity but also improves animal welfare.
This method is particularly beneficial in regions prone to drought as it optimises water resources and enhances crop resilience.
It would be remiss not to take into cognisance how some farmers and agricultural organisations may pour scorn on the idea of establishing solar farms on agricultural land.
They may view the concept as likely to result in low food production.
However, by combining food production and renewable energy generation, balanced synergies emerge, which enhance economic and environmental performance. Integrating two key industries results in sustainable development and biodiversity protection.
Agrivoltaics presents a viable solution for Zimbabwean farmers, whereby they not only adapt to these changes but also become active participants in mitigating climate change.
By harnessing the power of the sun, farmers can achieve sustainable and cost-effective farming practices, ensuring food security and economic stability.
The Government’s commitment to renewable energy, as outlined in the National Development Strategy 1, provides a robust framework for this transition.
With continued support from the Government and other partners, the future of agriculture looks bright, powered by the limitless energy of the sun.
Humphrey Kabade is an agricultural economist by profession. Word From The Market is a column produced by the Agricultural Marketing Authority to promote market-driven production. Feedback: [email protected] or WhatsApp/Call +263781706212.
