In a significant advancement for precision agriculture, researchers have developed a systematic approach to evaluate and rank wireless communication technologies specifically for irrigation systems. The study, led by Khadeejah Adebisi Abdulsalam from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, utilizes the CRITIC-CODAS multi-criteria decision-making method to assess various technologies, including Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN), LoRa, 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT).
This research is particularly timely as the agricultural sector increasingly turns to innovative solutions to enhance sustainability and productivity. Abdulsalam emphasizes the importance of this evaluation, stating, “By matching wireless technologies to irrigation needs, we can significantly improve resource efficiency, which is crucial in the face of climate change and growing food demands.” The study meticulously compares these technologies based on critical factors such as range, power consumption, data rate, coverage, latency, battery life, and device density.
The findings highlight that 5G technology, despite its high power requirements, ranks at the top due to its unparalleled data rate and device density. This makes it an attractive option for areas where connectivity is paramount, although its energy demands may pose challenges for remote agricultural applications. In contrast, IoT presents a balanced solution that performs well across multiple criteria, while WSN stands out for its efficiency in power consumption and battery longevity.
LPWAN, LoRa, and NB-IoT technologies, while offering lower data rates, excel in providing extensive range and battery life, making them ideal for wide-area, low-power applications. This nuanced understanding of each technology’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for stakeholders aiming to optimize their irrigation systems.
The implications of this research extend beyond agricultural efficiency; they touch on the energy sector’s potential to innovate and adapt. As farmers adopt these technologies, the demand for energy-efficient solutions will rise, prompting energy providers to rethink their strategies. Abdulsalam notes, “This research paves the way for future technology combinations and real-world testing, which can lead to more sustainable energy practices in agriculture.”
The framework established by this study could serve as a blueprint for evaluating other smart agriculture applications, ultimately driving the adoption of technologies that not only enhance productivity but also promote environmental sustainability. Published in the ‘Journal of Digital Food, Energy & Water Systems’ (translated to English as the Journal of Digital Food, Energy & Water Systems), this research underscores the vital intersection of technology, energy, and agriculture in addressing contemporary challenges.
For more information about the lead author, you can visit the University of Lagos at lead_author_affiliation.