Requirements for transitioning to solar energy in poultry farms: Evidence from Kermanshah city

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
katayoon golbaf 1
Farah naz Rostami 2
Samaneh Sanjabi 3
1 MSc, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
3 PhD, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
10.30470/jrdes.2026.2084619.1135
Abstract
The poultry industry faces high energy consumption and electricity imbalance challenges. Given the high potential of solar radiation in Iran, the present study aimed to investigate the implications of applying solar energy in poultry farms in Kermanshah city. This qualitative study was conducted with a conventional content analysis approach. The study population included all active industrial poultry farmers in Kermanshah city (86 units), livestock experts from the Agricultural Jihad Organization, and experts from the Electricity Distribution Company. Using purposive sampling and theoretical saturation criteria, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 people (16 poultry farmers and 4 experts). The data were analyzed with MAXQDA software and open and axial coding methods. Validity and reliability were confirmed with Lincoln and Guba criteria (1994). The findings of this study show that the application of solar energy in poultry farms in Kermanshah province is a multidimensional process and depends on the simultaneous interaction of economic, managerial, research, socio-cultural, and legal-political factors. The results indicate that focusing solely on short-term economic savings cannot guarantee the success of this transition, but rather, realizing long-term benefits requires targeted government incentives, reducing investment risks, and creating economic certainty for operators. In this regard, the role of poultry farm management as a facilitating or inhibiting factor stands out; in such a way that managerial commitment, strategic planning, and human resource empowerment can pave the way for the effective adoption and utilization of solar technologies.
Keywords
Solar technology
poultry industry
qualitative content analysis
sustainable development

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  • Receive Date 05 February 2026
  • Revise Date 15 May 2026
  • Accept Date 25 July 2026
  • Publish Date 22 May 2026