Innovative Agrivoltaic System at UWC to Revolutionize Clean Energy and Agriculture
Key Ideas
- The University of the Western Cape is implementing the 'Green New World' project, integrating solar energy production with crop cultivation through an Agrivoltaic System.
- The project aims to generate clean electricity for various systems such as water purification, irrigation, cooling, e-mobility, and more, showcasing a sustainable Water-Energy-Food ecosystem.
- The initiative not only focuses on technological advancements but also emphasizes social aspects by promoting a Just Energy Transition and offering training courses on AgriPV systems.
- Future phases of the project will involve green hydrogen production, compression technology, and fuel cell applications in transport and energy generation, in collaboration with HySA Systems Competence Centre.
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is embarking on an innovative project called the 'Green New World' (GNW) to implement an Agrivoltaic System, combining solar energy production with crop cultivation. Led by the Energy Storage and Fluid Treatment Centre at UWC, this system will integrate various sustainable practices like water purification, irrigation, e-mobility, and hydroponics. The project, hosted by the South African Institute for Advanced Materials Chemistry, aims to create a circular system that addresses water, energy, and food needs.
The GNW project is not only a technological advancement but also a social construct, promoting a Just Energy Transition in Africa while combating climate change. With plans to offer training courses on AgriPV systems and address economic and social dimensions, UWC is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions. The project also aims to boost energy generation without compromising agricultural output by integrating Agri-PV systems in South Africa's vast agricultural lands.
Furthermore, the GNW project will collaborate with the HySA Systems Competence Centre to incorporate green hydrogen production, compression technology, and fuel cell applications in future phases. This initiative has received funding from various sources like the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the Water Energy SETA, and the European Union Commission's funding programme Horizon Europe.
Through SAIAMC's expertise in renewable energy and sustainability domains, the GNW project seeks to provide industry and society with the necessary trust to adopt these innovative solutions. This project not only signifies a technological advancement but also a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.