Agrivoltaics: Where Energy Meets Food Security

— Reflections on My Recent Participation in the Global Meet on Renewable & Sustainable Energy

I had the privilege of contributing to the 2nd Global Meet and Expo on Renewable and Sustainable Energy, held at the Crowne Plaza Dubai — a gathering that brought together visionary minds from across the world to shape the next chapter of clean energy and sustainable development.

For me, it was more than just another scientific event.It was an opportunity to highlight a field that is rapidly becoming essential for arid countries like the UAE: Agrivoltaics — the intelligent integration of solar energy production with agriculture.

Why Agrivoltaics Matter Today

Agrivoltaics sits at the crossroads of three urgent global priorities:

1. Food Security Under Climate Stress

In regions where heat, soil degradation, and water scarcity threaten yields, agrivoltaics protects crops from extreme temperatures, reduces evaporation, and boosts productivity. This is not theory — it’s measurable, practical impact.

2. Smarter Land Use

Instead of competing for land, energy and agriculture work together.The same hectare produces food and power.For countries with limited arable land, this is a game-changing advantage.

3. Clean Energy That Serves Communities

By generating renewable energy directly within agricultural zones, agrivoltaics supports rural development, reduces operational costs, and strengthens energy independence.

My Contribution and Key Insights

During the conference, I shared our experience and research at the Fujairah Research Centre, where we evaluate how solar installations influence plant growth, soil temperature, microclimates, and water efficiency.

Our results are clear:

• Strategic shading boosts yields for several species.

• Soil retains moisture for longer periods.

• Energy production becomes a co-benefit, not a competitor.

• The system is one of the most promising models for arid-climate agriculture.

My message to the international community was simple:Agrivoltaics is not just an innovation — it is a necessity for the future of food systems in desert regions.

A Global Dialogue With Real Impact

The conference brought together exceptional researchers and leaders from the UAE, USA, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Conversations covered:

• Next-generation solar technologies

• Climate-adaptive crop systems

• Water-energy-food nexus strategies

• Large-scale implementation pathways for desert regions

These exchanges were more than academic — they opened doors for collaboration, joint research, and new investment in sustainable agriculture and energy solutions.

The Road Ahead

As the world accelerates toward sustainability, agrivoltaics will stand as one of the pillars of future food and energy resilience. I am proud to represent the UAE and the Fujairah Research Centre in this global movement — and even prouder to see our region emerge as a driving force for innovation.

Our commitment remains unwavering:supporting science, empowering visionaries, and turning bold ideas into practical solutions.