A recent study published in the journal “Next Sustainability” has explored the potential of a hybrid wind-solar irrigation system for kiwi orchards in Guilan province, Northern Iran. Led by Mehdi Niajalili from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the National University of Skill in Tehran, the research highlights the feasibility, environmental impact, and economic viability of utilizing renewable energy sources for agricultural irrigation.
The study reveals that wind energy can be harnessed for irrigation purposes for over six months each year, with wind power density reaching up to 467 W/m². This indicates a robust potential for wind energy to support irrigation needs for a significant portion of the year. Additionally, solar irradiance measurements suggest that the region could generate approximately 5.23 kWh/m² of energy from January to July, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation due to the average daily temperature peaking at 29.7°C.
Niajalili’s team calculated the net water requirements for kiwi orchards, allowing for precise irrigation planning. By combining this data with local meteorological information, they designed a hybrid wind-solar irrigation system tailored to the unique needs of the orchards. The research also included an environmental impact assessment, which forecasted a significant reduction in CO2 emissions over a 25-year period, underscoring the sustainability of this approach.
From an economic standpoint, the life-cycle cost analysis conducted in the study showed that the hybrid irrigation system would only incur 60% of the total costs associated with conventional irrigation systems over the same duration. This finding presents a compelling case for farmers and agricultural businesses to consider integrating renewable energy technologies into their operations.
“This hybrid system not only demonstrates environmental benefits but also offers substantial cost savings for farmers,” said Niajalili. The research opens up commercial opportunities for sectors involved in renewable energy, irrigation technology, and sustainable agriculture. As the agricultural industry increasingly seeks ways to minimize costs and environmental impact, the implementation of hybrid systems like the one studied could become a game-changer for kiwi orchards and potentially other crops in similar climates.
Overall, this innovative approach aligns with global trends toward sustainable farming practices and the growing demand for renewable energy solutions, positioning it as a viable option for enhancing agricultural productivity while contributing to environmental preservation.
