| Work Detail |
Energy use plays a crucial role in the efficiency, sustainability, and productivity of food systems. The agricultural sector alone accounts for 30% of global energy consumption, relying on power for food production, storage, transportation and processing. This is according to research by GOGLA – the global association for the off-grid solar energy industry. The paper highlights the potential to improve agricultural and economic outcomes in the agricultural sector in Africa and for off-grid solar to power a range of food system processes. It explores how greater collaboration between the food system and energy sectors can enhance positive impacts and reduce negative effects. Integrating renewable energy technologies into food system can lead to increased incomes, which can mean lower carbon emissions and energy costs According to the paper, the infrastructure used to power food systems is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, accounting for at least 15% of fossil fuel use globally. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, agricultural production consumes significantly less energy than the global average. The paper states that while smallholder farmers are vital to Sub-Saharan Africa’s food production, contributing 80% of the total output, more than two-thirds of rural communities – where these smallholder farmers are mainly located – lack electricity access. “This energy gap limits productivity and processing of farm produce, thus reducing farmers’ ability to generate livelihoods.” Gogla points out that the integration of off-grid solar technologies into food system processes can lead to increased incomes, a reduction in food waste, lower carbon emissions and energy costs, increased productivity and enhanced climate mitigation, adaptation and resilience. “Additionally, integrating solar energy into nutrition-intensive programmes can address malnutrition and its long-term effects.” |
