A VIABILIDADE ECONÔMICA DO CULTIVO DE PLANTAS ALIMENTÍCIAS NÃO CONVENCIONAIS ENTRE OS ESPAÇOS DAS PLACAS DE ENERGIA SOLAR E SISTEMAS AGROVOLTAICOS DAS PEQUENAS PROPRIEDADES RURAIS NO MUNICÍPIO DE BOCAÍUVA -MG, REGIÃO DO SEMIÁRIDO MINEIRO, BRASIL

Abstract

This article addresses the theme related to the field of agrarian geography, especially regarding the rational use of rural areas on small farms. Specifically, it refers to the spaces between solar panels occupied by photovoltaic systems, which are currently expanding rapidly throughout the state of Minas Gerais. As a spatial focus for this study, two small rural properties in the municipality of Bocaiuva, in the northern region of Minas Gerais, were selected. The guiding problem is anchored in understanding the possibilities of utilizing the spaces between solar panels for food cultivation, in order to provide a rational use for these areas and also to consider alternative crops that take into account the environmental specificities of the Minas Gerais semi-arid region. The objective of the research, therefore, is to analyze the economic viability and benefits of both the use of solar energy and the cultivation of so-called Unconventional Food Plants (PANCs). The methodology involves a literature review on the current context of photovoltaic energy expansion and its effects on the spatial dynamics of rural areas in Minas Gerais, and, using a qualitative-quantitative approach, gathers experiences and potential to enable this use in the municipality of Bocaiúva-MG. In this sense, it considers the geographical dimension as a starting point for understanding not only productive processes, but mainly as a fruitful path for understanding and revealing fair processes for the use of rural spaces.