In the heart of Ghana, a groundbreaking solution is emerging to tackle a longstanding challenge in cocoa production. Frederick Abangba Akendola, a mechanical engineer from the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa, has successfully designed and integrated a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to power a cocoa pod-splitting machine. This innovation addresses the critical issue of unreliable energy sources in off-grid cocoa-growing communities, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional manual methods.
The conventional approach to cocoa pod splitting is not only labor-intensive and inefficient but also hazardous. Mechanical splitting machines exist, but their adoption has been hindered by inconsistent energy supply. Akendola’s research, published in the journal “Solar Energy” (formerly “Solar Compass”), presents a viable solution that could revolutionize the cocoa industry and pave the way for similar applications in other agricultural sectors.
The designed system consists of five 275 W monocrystalline solar panels, a 24 V, 40 A charge controller, a 24 V hybrid GEL battery bank, and a 1.3 hp DC motor. The energy demand analysis, environmental assessment, and system simulation ensured the system’s operational efficiency, sustainability, and reliability. “The system demonstrated consistent energy supply to the machine, with sufficient autonomy for three operating days,” Akendola explained. “It produces 5843.75 Wh/day, which surpasses the machine’s energy requirement of 4720.46 Wh/day by 23.7%.”
The real-world performance of the system closely aligned with simulation predictions, confirming its viability, scalability, and reliability. Statistical analysis further validated the system’s reliability under varying solar conditions. The solar-powered cocoa pod-splitting machine achieved a splitting efficiency of 98.92%, a separation efficiency of 91–96.5%, and a bean damage proportion of just 1.03%, with a throughput of 60 cocoa pods per minute.
This innovation holds significant commercial potential for the energy sector. By integrating renewable energy into agricultural mechanization, the system minimizes reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 13 (Climate Action). “The study achieves up to 74% improvement while maintaining accessible, eco-friendly, and sustainable energy independence relative to prior systems,” Akendola noted.
The implications of this research extend beyond the cocoa industry. The successful integration of a solar PV system to power agricultural machinery demonstrates a scalable model that could be adapted for other crops and regions facing similar energy challenges. As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy sources, innovations like Akendola’s solar-powered cocoa pod splitter highlight the potential for sustainable solutions to drive economic growth and environmental stewardship.
In the quest for energy independence and sustainable agricultural practices, Akendola’s work stands as a testament to the power of innovation. By harnessing the sun’s energy, this research not only addresses immediate challenges in cocoa production but also sets a precedent for future developments in renewable energy applications. As the world watches, the cocoa fields of Ghana may well become a beacon of inspiration for off-grid communities worldwide, illustrating the transformative power of solar energy in shaping a more sustainable future.