The project focuses on advancing agrivoltaics as an integrated solution to simultaneously produce food, energy and water while strengthening climate resilience in West Africa. By combining photovoltaic systems with smart irrigation and agricultural practices, the project promotes a sustainable, threefold land-use approach that addresses key challenges in rural development, including energy access, food security and water management.
An interdisciplinary consortium is working to demonstrate the technical, economic and social viability of APV systems in real world conditions in West Africa. Central to the project is the installation of four pilot systems in Mali and The Gambia, including a large-scale demonstrator and smaller community-based installations. These systems are adapted to local needs and include applications such as smart irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, cold storage and productive uses.
The project places strong emphasis on the water energy food nexus, exploring synergies between renewable energy generation, efficient irrigation and agricultural productivity. Various water management strategies, such as groundwater use, rainwater collection and seasonal storage, are integrated into the system design to ensure sustainability and resilience under changing climate conditions.
A key objective is the active involvement of smallholder farmers and local communities. By promoting participatory approaches and locally-adapted business models, the project aims to enable farmers to become co-owners and long-term operators of APV systems. Revenues from energy and agricultural production will support economic viability of the model.
Ultimately, the project seeks to create scalable and replicable models that enhance rural livelihoods, increase local value creation and contribute to sustainable development in the region.
