January 20, 2025

Transformative Solar Energy: Powering 1 Trillion Tons of Annual Food Production

Solar energy is recognised as a transformative solution for agriculture and energy access, with the potential to boost food production and meet the needs of a growing global population. A World Bank report highlights off-grid solar as the most economical way to provide energy to 41% of the world by 2030, but significant investment and collaboration are required.

Solar Energy: A Solution for Farmers and Rural Communities


The widespread adoption of solar energy is being hailed as a game-changer for agriculture and energy access worldwide. Femi Oye, Chief Executive of SMEFUNDS, has stated that solar energy could enable nations to produce 1 trillion tons of food annually. This innovation is critical in addressing the needs of a growing global population.

A report by the World Bank highlights that off-grid solar solutions are the most cost-effective way to provide energy access to 41% of the global population by 2030. However, achieving this goal will require significant investment and collaboration.

Oye stressed that many farmers face severe challenges due to a lack of reliable energy sources. Without electricity, agricultural productivity and economic development remain limited. Solar energy has the potential to revitalise off-grid regions and provide sustainable solutions for farming communities.

From 2020 to 2022, solar power accounted for 55% of new energy connections in sub-Saharan Africa. This demonstrates its critical role in bridging the energy gap in underserved regions.

The World Bank’s Off-Grid Solar Market Trends Report 2024 underscores the need for a sixfold increase in current investment levels. This equates to $21 billion to fully harness the potential of off-grid solar power. Without this investment, 660 million people could remain without electricity by 2030.

Global Efforts to Expand Solar Energy


The World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are spearheading initiatives to address the energy crisis. Through the Mission 300 programme, they aim to provide electricity to 300 million people in Africa within the next six years. Off-grid solar will play a pivotal role in these efforts.

Solar energy can electrify households, businesses, healthcare facilities, and schools. These advancements foster development across sectors while improving quality of life for millions.

Oye noted that Nigeria has the capacity to implement large-scale off-grid solar projects. Local expertise can support initiatives to electrify farming households, improve food production, and combat rising inflation. He highlighted efforts by the AfDB to bring electricity to 10 million farming households in Africa. These projects will enhance food processing and economic stability.

Harnessing Solar Energy for Agriculture


The integration of solar energy into agriculture has transformative potential. Recent research by the University of Sheffield demonstrates how solar panels can enhance crop production. This approach — known as “agrivoltaics” — uses land for both agriculture and solar energy generation.

The study shows that crops like maize, Swiss chard, and beans thrive under the partial shade of solar panels. The shading reduces water loss through evaporation and provides an opportunity to collect rainwater from the panels for irrigation. This method improves crop yields while conserving water.

Professor Sue Hartley, the study’s senior author, emphasised that agrivoltaics addresses critical challenges like food insecurity and water scarcity. She described a future where farms produce clean energy and more resilient crops.

Solar Energy and Sustainable Development


Solar energy is pivotal in addressing global challenges, from energy access to food security. Oye urged governments to collaborate with investors and development partners to harness the potential of off-grid solar solutions. By doing so, they can transform farming households and small businesses while boosting food production.

The benefits of solar energy extend beyond agriculture. The World Bank estimates that off-grid solar can significantly enhance healthcare, education, and business development. Its role in meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be overstated.

Solar energy is not just a source of power; and it is a catalyst for sustainable growth. With the right investments and policies, it can revolutionise agriculture, provide universal energy access, and address pressing global challenges. As initiatives like Mission 300 gain momentum, the world moves closer to a future powered by clean and renewable energy.

By embracing innovations like agrivoltaics, nations can create a sustainable balance between energy production and agricultural growth. Solar energy offers a promising path to a brighter and more resilient future for all.


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