Sustainable Agriculture Technology Launched Through Adventist University in Chile – Adventist Today

2 September 2024|

The Faculty of Engineering and Business at the Adventist University of Chile (UnACh) has launched a project called the Agro-Photovoltaic System (AgroPv), focused on a dual purpose: generating electrical energy using solar radiation and developing fruit orchards under photovoltaic panel structures. Photovoltaic panels use photovoltaic cells to convert sunshine into voltage which is used through solar panels. Light can pass through the crops below using semi-transparent solar panels, decarbonizing energy, thus reducing energy costs by 100%. 

The Innovation Fund for Competitiveness of the Regional Government of Ñuble has funded the project, recognizing that solar technology can have an amazing impact on agricultural practices. These methods are vital for numerous reasons: as mentioned they help reduce energy costs for farmers, but Victor Pizarro the project director said in a quote for ANN that 

“This project seeks to create a synergy between agricultural systems and photovoltaic systems.” The crop benefits because we avoid sunburn and excess radiation; there is also an increase in the efficiency of water use. On the other hand, the panels also benefit because having a crop underneath creates a cooler environment, and that benefits the panels,” 

The crops in question are currently strawberries and cherries, thriving under the panels positioned 4.5 meters (14.76 feet) above the plants, protected from unpredictable weather such as frostbite, excessive rain, sunstroke, and hail. Cherries in particular are notoriously difficult to grow, often subject to blight or pests, yet the use of semi-transparent glass has been a groundbreaking development to mitigate issues like contamination.

“Jorge Retamal, a researcher in fruit growing at the Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA) Quilamapu, explains that the proposed roof structure for cherry trees offers significant advantages. Unlike current plastic roofs, the glass panels aim to minimize microplastic contamination in the fruits we consume, demonstrating a commitment to both health and environmental care.”

The developments from UnACh’s project have begun a ripple effect within agricultural circles, creating an open dialogue with other sectors across Europe such as Switzerland, Germany, and Spain, who are also experimenting with agro-photovoltaic projects in fruit crops. Colleges, Universities, Trade Schools, and regional farmers have been welcomed to learn more about the project through tours, seminars, courses, and workshops. Their innovative efforts endeavor to bridge the gap between private and public sectors, introducing practical forms of sustainability that can be utilized within the agricultural industry. 

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