Renewable energy integration in agricultural value chains: An assessment of economic and operational benefits

This review synthesizes evidence on economic and operational benefits of renewable energy integration across agricultural value chains, addressing gaps in comprehensive value-chain assessments beyond isolated farm-level analyses. A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines using Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed articles and institutional reports published between 2006 and 2026 were analyzed thematically. Inclusion criteria required studies reporting quantitative economic or operational metrics of renewable energy applications in agriculture. Out of 312 potentially relevant records, 41 studies met the inclusion criteria after screening. Data extraction captured technology types, value chain nodes, economic outcomes, and operational outcomes. Results showed that solar-powered irrigation reduces operational energy costs compared to diesel alternatives, though economic viability depends heavily on local fuel prices, subsidy regimes, and access to financing. Agrivoltaic systems generate dual revenue streams but exhibit trade-offs between energy production and agricultural productivity that vary by crop species and climate conditions. Biomass energy integration from agricultural residues contributes to circular economy goals, yet feedstock seasonality and transportation costs constrain economic viability. Solar cold storage reduces post-harvest losses, but high initial capital costs remain prohibitive for smallholder farmers. Smart irrigation improves water use efficiency, though groundwater over-abstraction risks emerge when energy costs decline. Overall, renewable energy integration delivers substantial yet context-dependent economic and operational benefits across agricultural value chains. Realization requires addressing financing barriers, technical capacity gaps, and institutional support deficits. Future research should prioritize longitudinal assessments, standardized economic frameworks, and integrated value chain modeling.