Transformative change is accomplished by intervening at the nexus of energy, water, and food security. One way this is accomplished is by cultivating family food gardens under the shade of solar panels.  This co-location of food and renewable energy buffers against the desert heat and reduces water evaporation significantly. The panels do more than provide renewable energy and clean water, they also provide shade, another resource in short supply.

“Agro-volteic” panels create a buffer against the intense heat and aridity of the Sonoran coast for food crops grown in these new shady spots.  The plants in turn, cool the solar panels as they take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen and water, enabling the panels to operate more efficiently. Growing desert-adapted native crops such as tomatillos, chiles, and tepary beans not only increases food access and improves health but also can provide an additional source of income.  Food and health needs are addressed with the extra money saved from reduced electric bills.