Increasing food system sustainability using solar powered atmospheric water

Abstract: This study investigates the possibilities of applying water generated from the atmosphere for agricultural processes, particularly hydroponic systems. A solar powered, off-grid greenhouse system is proposed as a theoretical solution to food production, in areas affected by water scarcity. Two experiments are conducted with the purpose of testing atmospheric water quality and how it performs in a hydroponic setting. The plausibility of powering said greenhouse system using solar energy is investigated, considering several available solar technologies. Ultimately, the footprint area required to install enough capacity to power the system is discussed, and the potential site of such a system is modelled and visualized. The experiments concluded that atmospheric water is likely suitable for hydroponic use. The study also found that the footprint area required for the greenhouse system probably can be considered reasonable for certain applications, but more research and advances within solar power technology would be beneficial