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

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  • Štefan Bojnec

    (Faculty of Management, University of Primorska, Izolska Vrata 2, SI-6000 Koper-Capodistria, Slovenia
    Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Suchdol, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • 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)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Štefan Bojnec & Umar Daraz & Younas Khan, 2024. "Harvesting Sunlight: The Promise of Agro-Photovoltaic Fusion Systems for Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy Generation," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-29, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:13:p:3310-:d:1429596
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Younas Khan & Umar Daraz & Štefan Bojnec, 2023. "Enhancing Food Security and Nutrition through Social Safety Nets: A Pathway to Sustainable Development," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(19), pages 1-13, September.
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    4. Chatterjee, Shantanu & Kumar, Prashant & Chatterjee, Saibal, 2018. "A techno-commercial review on grid connected photovoltaic system," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 81(P2), pages 2371-2397.
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