Abstract

This chapter discusses the status of research, development, and application of solar energy in agriculture in Nigeria. The potential of solar energy available in Nigeria is of total average 3.5–7.0 kw h/m2 per day. The solar radiation levels are adequate for agricultural practices throughout the country. Some solar energy devices have been developed, and tested for application in agriculture in Nigeria. These include solar thermal devices as solar cookers and ovens, solar crop dryers, solar chicken brooders and egg incubators, solar green houses, and photovoltaic systems such as solar powered photovoltaic (PV) water pumps. Some of the solar energy devices are currently finding applications in agriculture. The promotion of solar energy utilization in agriculture in Nigeria may complement the use of available conventional and nonconventional energy sources and improve agricultural productivity and the declining standard of living of the rural and urban populations. The barriers to solar energy utilization in agriculture require urgent attention by the government. The potential of solar energy application in agriculture in Nigeria is promising.

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