In the sun-drenched, arid landscapes of Cape Verde, a innovative approach to sustainable farming is taking root, quite literally. Researchers have developed a method to optimize hybrid renewable energy systems for aquaponic farming, a technique that combines aquaculture and hydroponics in a symbiotic cycle. This breakthrough, led by Luis Mazorra-Aguiar from the University Institute for Intelligent Systems and Numerical Applications in Engineering (SIANI) at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, promises to revolutionize food production in energy-challenged rural areas.
Aquaponic systems are not new, but their reliance on consistent electricity has been a hurdle, especially in regions with unreliable grids. Mazorra-Aguiar and his team have tackled this challenge head-on. “We wanted to create a system that is not only sustainable but also economically viable,” Mazorra-Aguiar explains. Their solution involves a hybrid renewable energy system that integrates photovoltaic, wind, diesel, and battery technologies. The goal? To ensure that aquaponic systems can thrive even in the most energy-starved environments.
The team’s multi-criteria decision-making procedure is a game-changer. By simulating over 1,680 different configurations, they identified the optimal hybrid system for a specific case on the island of Santo Domingo. The results are impressive: a 20,000 euro savings compared to other optimization software, a payback period of just four years, and a reduction of over 28 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. “This approach ensures that we select a technically feasible configuration that aligns with the constraints of each project,” Mazorra-Aguiar notes.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the world grapples with climate change and food security, this research offers a blueprint for sustainable, off-grid solutions. “Our study will have an impact on the circular economy of experimental aquaponic farming production systems, making them more accessible in agricultural areas with energy problems,” Mazorra-Aguiar says. This could pave the way for similar projects in other regions, fostering a new era of sustainable agriculture.
Published in the journal ‘Energy, Sustainability and Society’ (translated from Spanish as ‘Energy, Sustainability and Society’), this research is a beacon of hope for rural communities and a testament to the power of innovative thinking. As we look to the future, the integration of renewable energy and sustainable farming practices could very well be the key to feeding the world while protecting our planet.