Hybrid Solar-Wind Systems vs. Photovoltaic-Only Systems: A Comparative Analysis for Global Energy and Agricultural Land Use Optimization

Abstract

This theoretical study compares two renewable energy configurations—Unit A (photovoltaic-only, ground-mounted panels) and Unit B (hybrid solar-wind with elevated photovoltaic panels)—across varying surface areas (1, 5, 10, and 20 hectares) in four locations: Huarte/Uharte, Navarra (42.83˚N), Almería (36.84˚N), Sinaí (31˚N), and Ecuador (0˚ latitude). Unit B elevates solar panels 3 - 4 meters on posts to allow agricultural or animal activity beneath, integrating mini vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs)wind energy for day-and-night production. We project global photovoltaic capacity using a small-scale 1 m 2 prototype built by teenagers, we used Grok 3 X’s (xAI) to project outcomes, estimating energy output in GWh/day and potential increases in food production due to preserved agricultural land. Results show Unit B outperforms Unit A by up to 50% in high-wind regions (Sinaí, Almería) and seasons (winter, spring) in high-wind regions (e.g., Sinaí winter) and low-irradiance seasons, with full significant land use benefits. Global adoption of Unit B could enhance energy production by ~600 GWh/day. Adoption of Unit B globally could enhance energy production by up to 30% in different regions worldwide while freeing ~10 millions hectares for agriculture, supporting food security.