Software developer 3E has launched a pilot project combining agriculture and photovoltaics together with the project developer ORG, the power and water supplier Engazaat, the Habiba community on the Sinai Peninsula and the Center of Excellence for Water at the University of Alexandria. The aim is to optimise and improve conditions for farming in desert regions.
Demonstration project built for further scaling
The project partners have begun by installing a six kilowatt agrivoltaic system as a pilot in the Habiba community. Designed for initial research and demonstration purposes, the system delivers decentrally generated electricity and is intended to supply the Habiba community entirely with renewable energy.
The goal is to develop a scalable model for climate adaptation and food security in arid regions. The system is being fully monitored and documented to support future large-scale deployment. For data recording and analysis, 3E’s software-as-a-service platform SynaptiQ has been integrated into the installation. Through continuous data collection, site monitoring and performance analysis, the project partners aim to evaluate agricultural, ecological and energy performance over time and to support the future optimisation and replication of similar systems.
Combining agriculture, PV and water management
Beyond linking agriculture and photovoltaics, the project also addresses water management, which is critical in desert conditions. The decentralised agrivoltaic system is designed to improve resource efficiency while minimising CO2 emissions, allowing the Habiba community to dispense with a diesel generator for power.
Energy Decentral – apply now for the Innovation Awards
At the heart of the project is the agrivoltaic array installed above the cultivated areas. The modules shade the plants, reducing heat stress and improving growing conditions. The shading also limits water evaporation while clean electricity is generated for local communities.
Solar for farmers – tech and regulations in focus
Further systems already under construction
The project is conceived not merely as a demonstration but as a fully scalable model for desert regeneration and climate resilience that can be replicated in vulnerable regions worldwide. Building on the initial pilot phase, an additional 100 kilowatt agrivoltaic installation is currently being implemented at the Al Moghra oasis. Here, deep in the desert west of Alexandria in the Marsa Matrouh region, the project partners are supporting the further scaling of the approach in Egypt’s arid zones. (su)
