Renewable Energy Integration in Agriculture, Food Security and Allied Sectors

Abstract

The growing energy requirement in agriculture, together with dwindling fossil fuel reserves, requires a transition toward renewable sources of energy. Renewable energy such as solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower offer a sustainable option for the best possible energy management in agriculture. The paper presents a comprehensive review of numerous renewable energy technologies used in agriculture, their advantages, and the limitations of their implementation. The increased use of renewable energy enhances the efficiency of energy, reduces the emissions of greenhouse gases, and aids climate-resilient agriculture. Climate significantly affects energy consumption in agriculture, particularly concerning irrigation and heating needs. Energy-intensive irrigation systems are essential to maintain crop yields in regions with limited rainfall. Furthermore, advances in renewable energy technologies have resulted in substantial advancements in photovoltaic materials, wind turbine performance, and biomass conversion technology. Solar energy, wind, biomass, and geothermal power are some renewable energy technologies that hold promising alternatives for fossil fuels and that avoid climate change issues while contributing a reliable output of power towards agricultural activities. Certain innovative technologies, such as agrivoltaics, advanced energy storage units, and conversion of biomass, play important roles in developing sustainability. Furthermore, the adoption of renewable energy improves rural economies through job opportunities and the stabilization of food prices. The study concluded that renewable energy use in agriculture improves climate resilience, productivity, and a sustainable world food future. The transition is pivotal to the realization of global agriculture production efficiency, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. By the provision of a holistic review of renewable energy use in agriculture, the paper provides useful information to researchers.