The application of solar energy in agricultural systems

Abstract

-Given that one day fossil fuels will end, a need arises to find alternative fuels. Renewable energy is considered an alternative to fossil fuels and nowadays it attracts much attention. Among renewable energy sources, solar is the most important because it is available in all parts of the world. Also, this energy source is used in various industries including agriculture and it can be used in cultivating crops in the farthest corners of the world. In addition, this fuel does not cause pollution, like the other fossil fuels.Using the solar energy can be active in all agricultural areas. That will definitely help meet the increasing need for agricultural products with the increasing population. However, it is known that the agricultural land has a fixed area and, sometimes, agricultural products cannot be cultivated. That greenhouse is a method that is used nowadays and using the solar energy can help build solar greenhouses in areas far away from the city. Other applications of solar energy include irrigation, drying products, and ventilation niches. In this study, the researchers discuss some of the benefits of solar energy in agriculture.

Solar Energy Applications in Agriculture with Special Reference to North Western Himalayan Region

“…Solar radiation is the most fundamental renewable energy source [17] and the conversion of solar into chemical energy is the foundation of all agricultural production processes [18]. Solar energy is a widely used resource in agricultural applications [19] and is expected to be the most important future renewable energy source (Table 1).…”

“…A large amount of energy can be provided by solar air/space heaters [28], [52]. Water heating systems are either natural or forced convection forms and may be either direct where water in the current collector is heated and consumed, and indirect where water is used for heating a fluid such as a water-glycol antifreeze mixture in collectors [18].…”

“…Considering the limitations of open sun drying, mechanical drying and also due to electricity shortages and rising fuel costs, solar drying seems the most potent alternative for food processing[23].Solar dryers protect agricultural and horticultural products, dry uniformly at a rapid rate while improving product quality compared to open-air methods. Solar drying saves energy, time, occupies less area, improves product quality and protects the environment[18]. Solar dryers basically consist of an enclosed area, drying trays and a solar collector.…”

Cost Effectiveness of Poultry Production by Sustainable and Renewable Energy Source

“…Traditional poultry farming seriously consume fossil fuel and gas via the power and heating systems for heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation and running electric motors for feed lines [18,19]. Therefore, the usage of the renewable and sustainable energy technologies, including wind energy, solar energy, geothermal energy and air/water sources [20,21], plays vital role on the poultry farm owing to their potential to a reduction of energy demand and welfare losses, economy and profitability, GHG reduction and conservation of resources [22][23][24]. Hence, in this chapter, these advanced technologies is investigated and summarized for easier tracking and better understanding of energy-efficient renovation for typical poultry houses.…”

Monitoring System of Hydroponic Using Solar Energy

“…In paper [11], this journal discussing about the potential of using Renewable energy in Malaysia especially solar energy. In this paper [12], this paper discusses the use of solar energy in agriculture system such as to do a number of farm works, pumping water for irrigation, monitoring system and others. The research found that solar energy technologies for farming is divided into two systems which are photovoltaic cell system and uses solar capture heating system.…”