The application of solar-driven technologies for the sustainable development of agriculture farming: a comprehensive review

The rising demand for food and the unpredictable price of fossil fuels have led to the search for environmentally sustainable energy sources. Energy is one of the significant overhead costs for favorable climate control output of agriculture crops. Most farming machines are powered by fossil fuels, which leads to emissions of greenhouse gases and exacerbates climate change in turn. The concept of sustainable agriculture resides in a delicate balance between maximizing crop productivity and preserving economic stability while at the same time minimizing the use of natural resources and adverse environmental effects. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is one of the most abundant and cleanest renewable energy sources, with the capacity to meet the world's current energy demand with no adverse environmental effect. The use of solar energy systems in farm environments restricts fossil fuel consumption and increases farm production sustainability. This review provides a comprehensive overview focusing on key energy-saving strategies in agriculture farming. The technologies included in the research scope are mainly renewable and sustainable solutions, such as photovoltaic (PV) modules, solar thermal (T), hybrid PV/T collectors, energy-efficient pumping systems, various covering materials for improved thermal insulation, and energy generation.