Design and implementation of smart gardens for bio-photovoltaic energy generation as a sustainable alternative in Pucapuquio - Peru

This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a hybrid energy generation system that integrates bio-photovoltaic and conventional solar components within smart garden prototypes, intended for rural communities with limited access to electricity. The project is centered in Pucapuquio, Peru, and explores the use of native plants and soil microorganisms to generate bioelectricity via electrodes embedded in a controlled garden system. The prototype incorporates copper and aluminum electrodes, humidity and temperature sensors, and a microcontroller-based regulation unit to manage energy capture and storage in lithium battery banks. A supplementary 12V photovoltaic panel enhances energy availability. Experimental results with Sansevieria trifasciata showed voltage generation ranging from 0.39V to 0.82V during daylight hours. A second prototype, featuring six plants and a modular CAD-based design, is currently under construction to evaluate scalability. The system is modeled using both black-box and white-box diagrams to visualize energy and data flow, offering an educational and replicable framework. This work demonstrates the potential of bio-photovoltaic systems as a clean, low-cost, and decentralized energy alternative for remote regions, contributing to the global transition toward sustainable energy solutions.