Powering Nature, Preserving Harvest
Our Mission
AgroNova Machines Ltd is developing hybrid solar dryers—AgroNova Dryers—to help farmers and agro-processors reduce post-harvest losses, preserve crop quality, and increase earnings through efficient, all-weather solar drying technology.
Our Innovation
Problem Statement
Farmers and agro-processors in Sub-Saharan Africa lose over 30% of crops annually due to inadequate drying and preservation. Open-air sun drying leaves produce exposed to contamination, pests, rewetting, and weather risks, while fossil-fuel dryers are too costly. Existing solar dryers are often inefficient, with slow drying, poor heat storage, and weak performance in humid or cloudy conditions—leading to lower crop quality, income loss, and food insecurity.
Specific Problem Aspects Addressed by AgroNova Dryers
- Post-harvest losses: Ineffective preservation causes spoilage, reduced marketable yield, and income decline.
- High energy costs: Fossil-fuel mechanical dryers are expensive and unaffordable for many small and medium farmers.
- Inefficient traditional methods: Open-air drying exposes crops to contamination, pests, and weather, degrading safety and quality.
- Limitations of current solar dryers: Many have poor heat retention, slow drying, and low efficiency in humid or cloudy climates, resulting in spoilage and reduced profitability.
Solution Overview
How It Works
A corrugated aluminum solar collector and heat-storing stones supply steady heat, even in low sunlight. A solar-powered PTC heater and sensors automatically control temperature and humidity. Crops dry hygienically on trays inside a sealed chamber.
Unique Features
High-efficiency solar collector
Heat-storage stones for extended drying
Solar-powered PTC backup heater
Automated temperature/humidity control
Fully solar-powered system
Enclosed, tray-based hygienic drying
Technology / Methodology
A hybrid mix of solar thermal, PV power, and smart sensors ensures consistent, low-cost, all-weather drying.
Benefits and Impact
User Benefits (Short Term):
- Increased revenue (+15–20%) due to reduced post-harvest losses.
- Higher-quality produce achieved through hygienic, controlled drying.
- Reduced operational costs by minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Reliable, all-weather drying ensures a steady supply for markets.
Environmental and Societal Benefits (Long Term):
- Enhanced food security and reduced dependence on imported crops.
- Job creation and economic growth in rural farming communities.
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy utilization.
- Scalable, sustainable innovation promoting green agricultural practices.
Sustainable Development
Zero Hunger
Reduces post-harvest losses, ensuring more food reaches markets and households.
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Supports rural livelihoods, creates jobs, and increases farmer income.
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Promotes sustainable, technology-driven agricultural practices.
Responsible Consumption & Production
Encourages efficient, low-waste crop preservation.
Climate Action
Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions