Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) through Center of Research for AgriFood Science and Technology (CrAFT) with the support of Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism hosts a two-day from 20-21 September 2024, solar-powered for farming workshop that focuses on sustainable solutions for sustainable agriculture.
At the opening ceremony, Dr. Syazana Abdullah Lim, Director of CrAFT, expressed enthusiasm about the potential of solar energy in agriculture, stating, “As the global demand for food rises, it’s essential that we adopt innovative solutions that can increase agricultural productivity without further straining Earth’s resources. Solar-powered farming is not just an environmental urgency—it’s an economic opportunity for farmers looking to reduce their energy costs and enhance efficiency.”
The workshop brought together a diverse group of farmers, agri-preneurs and governmental agencies to explore the practical applications of solar energy in farming practices. The aim of this workshop is to provide participants with technical knowledge to make informed decision whether to use solar technology on their own farms and to work efficiently with solar energy researchers. This initiative is part of CrAFT Sustainable Development Goals initiative aimed at developing affordable and scalable solar technologies tailored to small and medium-sized farms.
The workshop provided participants with hands-on experience and expert insights into how solar-powered technologies can help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and decrease the environmental impact of agriculture. Participants were able to learn practical skills on solar-powered equipment including design, installation, operation, and maintenance to farmers. Participants will be equipped with actionable knowledge and practical strategies for integrating solar energy into their own agricultural operations.