from Part III - The Big Ideas
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 08 August 2026
Renewable energy is being used at every stage of the food production process. Its use aids in climate mitigation by reducing emissions, as well as in climate adaptation by enabling processes that add value to the raw produce. Once installed, renewable energy is cheaper than conventional energy. Decentralised products, such as solar rooftops and solar pumps, are particularly popular in developing countries, where the electricity they provide is often more reliable than power from the grid. However, a risk of using solar pumps is the potential overuse of groundwater. One way to manage this risk is to have farmers pay for the water they use, rather than purchase the system outright. This approach solves another problem: small producers often do not have the cash up front. They could use the system if banks or community organisations provided them leasing options. The ‘pay-as-you-go’ method, which uses mobile money, ensures convenience and risk management.
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