Agrivoltaics in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Assessing the geo-spatial potential for sustainable development

This study explores agrivoltaics (AV) as a solution for energy generation and efficient land use in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, aiming to reduce dependence on diesel power. Using GIS, the study identified 1422.28 ha as highly suitable and 9648.54 ha as moderately suitable for AV systems. This translates to a potential 4428.328 MW_P of power, roughly 63 times the islands' current consumption, achievable by utilizing only 1.34 % of the total land area. The analysis also presented a financial view with PVsyst simulations and LCOE analyses revealing monofacial Si Poly-crystalline technology has been most cost-effective at $24.07/MWh (1$ = 86.70₹) for ground-mounted and $31.08/MWh for elevated AV systems; and the CDTE PV technology, which had the highest Specific production values at 1696.90 kWh/kWp/year. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the capital cost is the most influential determinant on LCOE because ±50 % changes in capital cost resulted in a ±48–49 % change effort on LCOE. Literature suggests that AV can be advantageous to land productivity by decreasing crop heat stress and improving soil moisture which, in turn, can benefit pulses, vegetables, and fruit as examples. The findings suggest that AV systems can significantly improve energy security, provide financial benefits to farmers, and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 13 (Climate Action), and 15 (Life on Land) in the A&N Islands.