Egypt is growing crops beneath solar panels in the desert; the unusual idea could save water, help crops and produce clean energy

• ​Representative imageEgypt is testing a farming system that puts solar panels above crops instead of using separate land for agriculture and electricity generation.
• Known as agrivoltaics, the approach is being piloted at Habiba Farm in Nuweiba, South Sinai, where elevated panels provide partial shade while crops continue growing underneath.
• The project is designed for Egypt's harsh desert conditions, where intense heat and limited water make agriculture difficult.