TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Zörner, Wilfried T1 - Optimizing Agri-PV System: Systematic Methodology to Assess Key Design Parameters JF - Energies N2 - Agrivoltaic (Agri-PV) systems face the critical challenge of balancing photovoltaic energy generation with crop productivity, yet systematic approaches to quantifying the trade-offs between these objectives remain scarce. In this study, we identify nine essential design indicators: panel tilt angle, elevation, photovoltaic coverage ratio, shading factor, land equivalent ratio, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) utilization, crop yield stability index, water use efficiency, and return on investment. We introduce a novel dual matrix Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate their relative significance. An international panel of eighteen Agri-PV experts, encompassing academia, industry, and policy, provided pairwise comparisons of these indicators under two objectives: maximizing annual energy yield and sustaining crop output. The high consistency observed in expert responses allowed for the derivation of normalized weight vectors, which form the basis of two Weighted Influence Matrices. Analysis of Total Weighted Influence scores from these matrices reveal distinct priority sets: panel tilt, coverage ratio, and elevation are most influential for energy optimization, while PAR utilization, yield stability, and elevation are prioritized for crop productivity. This methodology translates qualitative expert knowledge into quantitative, actionable guidance, clearly delineating both synergies, such as the mutual benefit of increased elevation for energy and crop outcomes, and trade-offs, exemplified by the negative impact of high photovoltaic coverage on crop yield despite gains in energy output. By offering a transparent, expert-driven decision-support tool, this framework enables practitioners to customize Agri-PV system configurations according to local climatic, agronomic, and economic contexts. Ultimately, this approach advances the optimization of the food energy nexus and supports integrated sustainability outcomes in Agri-PV deployment. UR - https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143877 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143877 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-61136 SN - 1996-1073 VL - 18 IS - 14 PB - MDPI CY - Basel ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Wright, Andrew A1 - Brown, Neil A1 - Zörner, Wilfried T1 - Transitioning to Low-Carbon Heating: Decision-Making Approach for Cold Communities JF - Clean Energy N2 - Selecting a sustainable heat energy supply system for high-altitude, cold-climatic communities in developing countries is essential for both decision-makers and the scientific community. However, no comprehensive guide or framework exists to address this issue and decarbonize cold communities sustainably. This research aims to fill that gap by identifying and developing a methodology for selecting a suitable heat energy supply system, using Kyrgyzstan as a case study. The approach takes into account renewable energy sources, local conditions, and specific criteria necessary for designing a sustainable energy supply. The paper introduces a decision-making framework based on 17 criteria, covering geographical, environmental, economic, technical, and social aspects, derived from the opinions of over 20 experts. This framework serves as a guide for selecting and designing an appropriate heat energy supply system. Five heat supply options are analyzed in Kyrgyzstan’s high-altitude, cold rural setting to demonstrate the framework's potential. The analysis reveals that centralized district heating is the most suitable solution, scoring 79% for system selection. This methodology is partially or fully transferable to regions or countries with similar climates and local circumstances, offering a valuable resource for the development of sustainable heat energy solutions in cold, high-altitude communities. UR - https://doi.org/10.1093/ce/zkaf010 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1093/ce/zkaf010 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-58214 SN - 2515-396X VL - 9 IS - 4 PB - Oxford University Press CY - Oxford ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Zörner, Wilfried T1 - Crop selection in Agri-PV: international review based strategic decision-making model JF - Solar Compass N2 - Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV) is well known for its dual land use, integrating solar energy generation with agricultural production. This not only optimizes land use but also enhances food and energy security. Since Agri-PV is closely linked with crop cultivation, it is not solely about energy generation but also requires careful consideration of crop suitability within Agri-PV installations. Despite its significance, there is limited information available to guide decision-making for crop selection in Agri-PV systems. Selecting suitable crops remains a complex challenge, as factors such as shading tolerance, water requirements, and economic viability vary across different geographical and climatic conditions. This study develops a novel, review-based decision support model for crop selection in Agri-PV systems, synthesizing international research and case studies to provide a structured framework for decision-making. The model is based on 12 main crop typologies and key parameters such as water use, shading adaptability, crop yield/economic potential, and space requirements, derived from 117 research articles and case studies from 25 countries. By leveraging insights from successful international implementations, the model provides a practical framework for policymakers, farmers, and energy planners to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of Agri-PV projects. Findings suggest that crop selection strategies must align with regional climate conditions and PV system design to maximize synergies between energy and food production. High-value crops that require less space and have higher shade tolerance are more suitable for small-scale or decentralized Agri-PV systems. Future research should focus on advanced modeling techniques, AI-driven optimization, and real-world pilot studies to further refine decision-making in Agri-PV deployment. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on Agri-PV systems by providing a novel crop suitability matrix for effective decision-making. UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solcom.2025.100143 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solcom.2025.100143 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-62476 SN - 2772-9400 VL - 2025 IS - 16 PB - Elsevier CY - Amsterdam ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Chaturvedi, Pushpendra Kr. A1 - Kumar, Nand A1 - Toftum, Jørn A1 - Andersen, Rune Korsholm A1 - Lamba, Ravita A1 - Mehta, Kedar T1 - Exploring influential parameters affecting residential building energy use: advancing energy efficiency through machine learning JF - Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy UR - https://doi.org/10.1007/s10098-025-03301-x Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1007/s10098-025-03301-x SN - 1618-9558 VL - 27 IS - 11 SP - 6975 EP - 6996 PB - Springer CY - Berlin ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Jain, Rushabh Bansilal A1 - Zörner, Wilfried T1 - Agrivoltaics Around the World: Potential, Technology, Crops and Policies to Address the Energy–Agriculture Nexus for Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Land Use JF - Energies N2 - The urgent pursuit of climate-resilient agriculture and clean energy systems, central to the Energy–Agriculture Nexus and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, has accelerated global interest in agrivoltaic (Agri-PV) technologies. This paper presents a global systematic review and meta-analysis of 160 peer-reviewed studies, structured through a five-stage thematic synthesis: (1) mapping global and regional Agri-PV deployment and potential, (2) analyzing system design and modeling methodologies, (3) evaluating crop suitability under partial shading, (4) reviewing enabling policies and regulatory frameworks, and (5) assessing techno-economic feasibility and investment barriers. Results reveal that Europe and Asia lead Agri-PV development, driven by incentive-based policies and national tenders, while limited regulatory clarity and high capital costs constrain wider adoption. Despite technological progress, no integrated model fully captures the coupled energy, water, and crop dynamics essential for holistic assessment. Strengthening economic valuation, policy coherence, and standardized modeling approaches will be critical to scale Agri-PV systems as a cornerstone of sustainable and climate-resilient land use. UR - https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246417 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.3390/en18246417 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-65288 SN - 1996-1073 VL - 18 IS - 24 PB - MDPI CY - Basel ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Lwakatare, Bertha A1 - Zörner, Wilfried A1 - Ehrenwirth, Mathias T1 - Mini-grid performance in Sub-Saharan Africa: case studies from Tsumkwe and Gam, Namibia JF - Sustainable Energy Research N2 - This paper investigates the performance analysis and operational challenges of mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on the Tsumkwe and Gam mini-grids, the only officially recognized mini-grids in Namibia. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding mini-grid efficiency, technical difficulties, and future potential. The key research questions focus on assessing mini-grid performance, identifying technical and operational challenges, quantifying the relationship between electricity demand and supply, and providing recommendations for enhancing rural electrification through mini-grids. These insights are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of mini-grids in the African context and understanding their role in advancing rural electrification. By using a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative and qualitative data to offer a comprehensive analysis of these two mini-grid systems of Namibia. The data collected from 2017 to 2022 include metrics on energy supply, consumption, photovoltaic generation, community load, and meteorological conditions. Qualitative insights were gathered through field visits, surveys, and interviews with mini-grid operators, allowing for a thorough examination of community perspectives, operational issues, and technical performance. The findings reveal that the Tsumkwe mini-grid has seen a decline in efficiency due to maintenance problems and battery overheating, while the Gam mini-grid, initially oversized, now struggles with increased demand and new connections. This study provides the first detailed technical insights, identifies consumer archetypes, and evaluates the energy dynamics of mini-grids in Namibia. Recommendations include improved maintenance protocols, advanced battery management, and enhanced data monitoring. By analyzing Tsumkwe and Gam, this paper offers valuable lessons for mini-grid development in Sub-Saharan Africa, stressing the need for continuous evaluation and strategic improvements to achieve sustainable rural electrification. UR - https://doi.org/10.1186/s40807-025-00174-y Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1186/s40807-025-00174-y UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-65316 SN - 2731-9237 VL - 12 IS - 1 PB - SpringerOpen CY - Singapore ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Betz, Florian T1 - Agri-photovoltaics in India: Geospatial suitability for sustainable water–energy–food nexus solutions JF - Energy for Sustainable Development UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esd.2025.101915 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esd.2025.101915 SN - 2352-4669 VL - 2026 IS - 91 PB - Elsevier CY - Amsterdam ER - TY - JOUR A1 - Mehta, Kedar A1 - Lamba, Ravita A1 - Sinha, Sunanda A1 - Kumar, Nand T1 - BIPV in India: Opportunities, challenges, and pathways for urban planning and smart cities JF - Solar Compass N2 - As India urbanizes rapidly, sustainable energy solutions have become a priority to meet rising energy demands and mitigate environmental impacts. Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) offer a promising approach to harness solar energy within urban infrastructure, transforming buildings into renewable energy assets. Unlike conventional rooftop PV systems, BIPV maximizes urban space utilization while enhancing architectural aesthetics and energy efficiency. However, the adoption of BIPV in India remains limited due to factors such as regulatory barriers, lack of standardized designs, and high initial costs. This study uses SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and TOWS (Threats, Opportunities, Weaknesses, Strengths) analyses to assess the potential, opportunities, and challenges of BIPV in India’s urban planning. It then discusses policy implications and offers practical recommendations for implementation in Indian cities. Key findings of this study indicate that BIPV adoption in India can significantly contribute to urban sustainability by reducing carbon emissions, improving energy self-sufficiency, and lowering long-term operational costs. The SWOT and TOWS analysis reveal that while BIPV presents opportunities for smart urban integration, challenges such as high initial investments and lack of awareness must be addressed through targeted policies and incentives. Additionally, global case studies highlight successful BIPV implementations, providing valuable lessons for India’s urban planning strategies. UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solcom.2025.100133 Y1 - 2025 UR - https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solcom.2025.100133 UR - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:bvb:573-61824 SN - 2772-9400 VL - 2025 IS - 15 PB - Elsevier CY - Amsterdam ER -