Planning Solar Power and Water Systems for FiTiCAS Agroecology Projects
Project Sponsor: Fideicomiso de Tierras Comunitarias para la Agricultura Sostenible (FiTiCAS)
Team Members: Alec Norton, Ronit Kapoor, Kayleigh Carson, Jess Elmhurst
Project Advisors: Martin Cobian and Scott Jiusto
Project Files:
- WPI FiTiCAS – IQP Report
- WPI FiTiCAS – Final Presentation
- WPI FiTiCAS – Solar Planning How-To Guide Infographic
- WPI FiTiCAS – Utility Calculations
- WPI FiTiCAS – Utilities Analysis Report
- WPI FiTiCAS – Contact Directory
- WPI FiTiCAS – Scenario Spreadsheet
Abstract
Puerto Rico is one of the most import-dependent places in the world, facing food and power shortages from failing infrastructure, outsourced production, and natural disasters. A grassroots initiative founded in 2019 after the destruction of Hurricane Maria, FiTiCAS works to reclaim farmland and restore food sovereignty in Puerto Rico. As this project aimed to design a water and electricity planning guide for the Las Perdices Estate entrusted to FiTiCAS, we analyzed the existing structures on the land, interviewed experts, and researched similar systems. We developed a Utilities Analysis Report, a Utilities Calculator, and a How-to Guide for improving solar microgrid and rainwater harvesting. These tools will help FiTiCAS and similar organizations improve their systems.