Solar driven agri-food processes

Cooperating countries: Uganda and Austria

Coordinating institution: University of Innsbruck, Daniel Neyer, daniel.neyer@uibk.ac.at

Partner institutions: Makerere University

Project duration: 1 July 2023 - 30 June 2025

Abstract:

Uganda face serious issues in the Agri-Food sector. It contributes significantly to GDP and is the main source of employment. However, a substantial proportion of the harvest spoils and destabilizes farmer’s income. There is a lack of knowledge and access to effective post-harvest handling methods and impacts on the living conditions of the rural population. Thus, there is an urgent need to provide affordable, renewable energy and knowhow for food conservation and food processing.

solFOOD combines the knowledge of solar energy technology with state-of-the-art food processing technology. The approach determines a matrix of food conservation applications showing the socio-economic-technical impact of solar energy systems. This includes hybrid solutions based on solar thermal energy and photovoltaic. The project also addresses specific needs in advanced food safety and hygienic standards. The approach will ensure stability while increasing output quality and productivity. Rural communities can thereby meet stringent quality and capacity requirements required for national and international trade. 

The research focuses on a field study in Uganda. A solar driven agri-food processing plant, currently under construction, is used to assess the effect of improved and combined food processing and solar energy technologies on energetic, environmental and social level. 

The project results will contribute to a cost-effective increase in the use of solar energy for food conservation processes in Africa. Thus, providing the base for sustainable development of the agri-food sector and contributing to several SDGs. Although Sol-FOOD is focused on Uganda the results can be transferred to other countries with similar needs.