One Week Training Programme on Applications of Solar Technologies in Agriculture and Allied Sectors

Introduction Renewable Energy, particularly, Solar has become the mainstay in the present-day energy mix in the grid and has achieved grid parity in terms of cost as well as technical requirement. Worldwide growth of solar energy, through solar photovoltaic power is riding high with global cumulative achievement of 486 GW. China leading with 175 GW of installed capacity, followed by Japan 56, USA51, Germany 46 and India 28 GW. The goal will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, desire to boost renewable energy is also linked to its aim to reduce the almost 100% share of power generation accounted for by oil and gas. Achieving this would enable more hydrocarbons to be used in higher-value-added petrochemical and refining processes. Agricultural production and Food processing need to be closely interlinked to address the emerging issues of food security and safety. There is also an urgent need to review processing of fruits and vegetables in general employing environmentally friendly and renewable sources of energy. As solar power plants are capital intensive, accurate measurement of incoming radiation is very critical in assessing site suitability, feasibility and analysis of plant performance vice versa incoming solar radiation and the energy yields of solar power plants vary not only according to plant design & technology but also to local weather and environmental conditions. today, India's installed solar power reached 28,180 MW (7.89%), of the total Indian energy mix of 3,56,817 MW and stands fifth worldwide, in terms of installed solar PV power. With the vast expertise gained in the wind and solar energy sector. As Indians, we're standing at a critical juncture, faced with a choice that will shape our future - continue down the path of fossil fuels or embark on a journey towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow. We're choosing the latter, committing to a future powered by renewable energy, cleaner transportation, and sustainable practices. By 2030, we aim to increase our renewable energy capacity to 500 GW, reduce emissions by 45%, and promote electric vehicles and public transportation. We're working towards a future where energy efficiency and sustainable land use practices are the norm, and our economy is fueled by carbon pricing, green financing, and climate resilience measures. Solar Food Processing – Solar drying in particular assumes great significance. Introduction of solar technologies and its applications, dehydration technology for Agri –Horticulture produce to small and medium entrepreneurs and farmers will be important to address the aspects of value addition and prevention of post – harvest losses. processing of fruits & vegetables on solar cabinet dryers, designed, developed. These technologies have been market tested and are being successfully transferred to different levels of entrepreneurs. This technology affords zero energy cost, zero carbon emission and clean and hygienic processing of food products. The technology is inherently poised for offering the advantages of high retention of nutrients along with value enhancement. As part of promotion & popularization of innovative technologies, This programme will bring together key decision makers to network and will offer all those involved fantastic business development opportunities to stay on top of the latest issues and trends in the fields of Clean energy. Objectives • The prime objective is to transfer knowledge and special skills to all the participants. • To build skilled human resource so that there will be advancement of solar energy and its applications in Agriculture and allied sectors. • To provide an invaluable platform for exchange of professional experiences among diverse participants. • To leverage the research that continues to shape this rapidly evolving discipline. • To introduce solar dehydration process of Fruits and Vegetables with hands on experience for preparation of fruits & vegetable products. • Focus on development of skills in processing of fruits and vegetables in solar cabinet dryers for value addition and preservation for long shelf life.