A Review of Roof Top Agro-Voltaic System Development: Integrating Renewable Energy and Urban Agriculture
M. Z. Sheikh *
Department of Renewable Energy Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
A. G. Mohod
Department of Renewable Energy Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
P. P. Chavan
Department of Renewable Energy Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
R. T. Thokal
Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
K. G. Dhande
Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
P. B. Sanap
Vegetable Improvement Scheme, CES, COA, Dapoli, Maharashtra, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Roof top agro-voltaic system (RAVs) offer a sustainable solution to urbanization, energy demand, and food security challenges by integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels with Roof top farming. These systems optimize land use, particularly in urbanizing countries like India, where they can support renewable energy goals and enhance urban food production. This review highlights the evolution, technical aspects, and benefits of RAVs, including energy production, improved agricultural yields, and environmental conservation. Studies show that PV panels can generate 20-25% of a building’s energy needs while reducing Roof top temperatures by up to 5°C, contributing to energy efficiency. Crops grown under PV panels often experience stable microclimatic conditions, leading to a 10-15% increase in water use efficiency. In India pilot projects have demonstrated the dual benefits of solar energy generation and urban farming, creating income opportunities and reducing the carbon footprint.
However, challenges such as efficiency trade-offs, financial constraints and regulatory gaps limit widespread adoption. Global case studies, including examples from India, showcase the success of emerging technologies like bifacial panels and AI-driven crop management, achieving up to 30% higher energy generation and improved crop quality. Roof top agro-voltaic system represent a transformative approach to sustainable urban development, offering measurable outcomes in energy, agriculture and environmental sustainability, making them a critical solution for future urban ecosystems.
Keywords: Roof top agro-voltaic system, renewable energy, urban sustainability, photovoltaics, climate-smart agriculture