Researchers in Oman have explored a system that combines atmospheric water harvesting, solar energy and hydroponic farming to support agricultural production in arid areas. The project was funded through the Strategic Research Programme of the Research and Innovation Authority in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, according to Times of Oman, a partner of TV BRICS.
The study, titled “Feasibility Study to Extract Water from Air and Utilise it in Salt-Affected Lands”, was led by Ahmed Al-Busaidi, Professor of Sultan Qaboos University. The research team assessed locations across Oman to identify areas with favourable conditions for atmospheric water harvesting, including parts of southern Oman, the northern coastline and selected central regions.
The researchers tested atmospheric water harvesting systems capable of producing up to 40 or 100 litres of water per day, depending on weather conditions and equipment capacity. The technology was then integrated with solar power and hydroponic cultivation in a newly constructed greenhouse, allowing the team to assess crop production using renewable energy and water extracted directly from the atmosphere.
The controlled environment produced higher growth indicators for several crops. Tomato plants grown in the greenhouse recorded an average chlorophyll content of 25.5 and reached 186 centimetres in height, compared with 8.23 and 76.5 centimetres, respectively, for plants cultivated outdoors. Greenhouse-grown lettuce also developed higher chlorophyll levels and larger leaves, highlighting the potential of controlled cultivation conditions.
The integrated approach could support year-round crop production while making use of renewable energy and reducing pressure on conventional water resources. The system could also support year-round crop production, with potential applications for high-value crops, medicinal plants and exotic fruits.
Experts recommended further development of automated technologies, including artificial intelligence, to monitor water, nutrients and environmental conditions in real time. He also highlighted the potential for sustainable greenhouses to support research and education, alongside technical training and wider adoption of renewable energy solutions in agriculture.