Investment opportunities in sustainable agriculture

A recently released report in partnership with the Western Cape government focuses extensively on the benefits of alternative energy systems to farmers.

- Glenneis Kriel

Green Cape's recently released Market Intelligence Report, developed in partnership with the Western Cape government, highlights key opportunities for investors and suppliers in precision spraying, using drones, as well as in protective farming infrastructure such as shade netting and tunnels.

While electricity supply stabilised in 2023, investments in renewable energy applications remain attractive due to anticipated tariff increases, growing pressure for low-carbon production, and the increasingly strong business case for battery storage.

According to the report, the average cost of drone-based precision spraying (excluding chemical costs) ranges between R400/ha to R800/ha, compared to R320/ha to R500/ha for manned aircraft, R60/ha to R180/ha for tractors, and about R220/ha for manual spraying.

DRONE-BASED ADVANTAGES

Although drones are not the most cost-effective option, especially compared to manned aircraft that can cover large areas quickly, they offer advantages in terms of efficiency and input savings.