Researchers from the University of California, Riverside, have proposed a transformative approach to food production, termed 'electro-agriculture,' which aims to significantly increase the efficiency of photosynthesis. This innovative method suggests growing crops in controlled environments without sunlight, as detailed in a study published in the journal 'Joule' on October 23, 2024.
The traditional process of photosynthesis converts only a small fraction of solar energy into chemical energy, but the new approach could enhance this process up to fourfold. By utilizing solar panels to power chemical reactions between carbon dioxide and water, the method produces acetate, a compound similar to acetic acid, which can then be used to nourish hydroponically grown plants.
This technique could drastically reduce the land needed for agriculture in the United States, potentially saving over 90% of arable land. The researchers believe this method could also be applicable for growing food in space.
Robert Jinkerson, the lead author of the study, emphasized that moving agriculture away from dependence on sunlight allows for cultivation in controlled indoor conditions. The study's co-author, Feng Jiao, noted that this method reduces the carbon footprint associated with food production.
To enable plants to utilize acetate, scientists are investigating genetic modifications to activate a metabolic pathway that is typically disabled once plants begin photosynthesis. Initial experiments are focusing on tomatoes and lettuce, with plans to eventually include high-calorie staple crops such as cassava and grains.
While the research is still in its early stages, the team is optimistic about the potential for commercialization of fungi, yeast, and algae, which can already be cultivated using this method. They anticipate significant improvements in efficiency and cost-effectiveness in the near future.