Solar Energy as an Alternative for an All Year Round Production of Vegetables in Anambra, Nigeria

Abstract

Epileptic power supply is a major problem in Nigeria and one of the ways Nigerians have solving this challenge is by using renewable energy as an alternative power supply in place fossil fuels. Among renewable energy sources, solar is the most important because it is available in this part of the world. This energy source is also used in various industries including agriculture and it can be used in irrigation and sprinklers in farmer’s vegetable farm. This research was carried out through field visitations and extensive literature on the performance of photovoltaic modules. This paper outlines the use of solar water pump for irrigation in vegetable farms, the benefits and concludes with suggested recommendations which can help production of vegetables during dry season in Anambra State. It aims at contributing a better understanding of the potential impact of solar photovoltaic (PV) on sustainable production of vegetables with special attention to the effect of income generating activities in the State. It is known that during dry season, vegetables do not get enough water, sometimes these agricultural products are very scarce and expensive. Solar photovoltaic water pumping is found to be economically viable in comparison to electricity or diesel based systems for irrigation and sprinklers in the vegetable farm. Solar photovoltaic water pumping is therefore, an attractive alternative for irrigation and sprinklers in Nigerian vegetable farm due to the huge solar potential in the country.