Headnote
ABSTRACT
Introduction: The present study analyzes the use of SCADA systems (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) as a tool for efficient energy management in the agro-industrial sector, which is characterized by high energy demand in processes such as irrigation, refrigeration, and storage. The research aimed to develop and simulate, through the CoDeSys software, a computational model of automated irrigation capable of monitoring and controlling critical variables of energy consumption in real time. Based on theoretical frameworks of industrial automation, energy efficiency, and sustainability, the study adopts ISO 50001 as its theoretical foundation, as well as studies that emphasize the integration of SCADA, fuzzy control, and the Internet of Things (IoT) within the context of Industry 4.0. The methodology involved modeling a system composed of sensing, actuation, and intelligent control modules, which was subjected to different experimental scenarios simulating environmental variations and operational failures. The results indicated average reductions of 12.5% in water consumption and 9.3% in energy consumption compared to conventional systems, in addition to efficiency gains and immediate response to failures. The discussions demonstrate that automation combined with intelligent control enhances the rational use of resources and contributes to the environmental and economic sustainability of the sector. The study reinforces the importance of automated energy management in promoting competitiveness and sustainability, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 9, 12, and 13 of the 2030 Agenda.
Objective: The objective of this study is to develop and simulate, through CoDeSys software, a computational model of automated irrigation based on SCADA systems (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) aimed at efficient energy management in agroindustry.
Theoretical Framework: It is based on concepts of industrial automation, energy efficiency, and sustainability, supported by previous research and the ISO 50001 guidelines (ABNT, 2018). The integration between SCADA, fuzzy control, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the context of Industry 4.0 is emphasized.
Method: The study employed simulations in the CoDeSys environment, modeling an irrigation system composed of sensing, actuation, and intelligent control modules. Three experimental scenarios were tested, considering climatic variations, operational failures, and unexpected events, with data collection on water, energy, and efficiency.
Results and Discussion: The results showed an average reduction of 12.5% in water consumption and 9.3% in energy consumption compared to conventional systems, demonstrating efficiency and sustainability gains. The fuzzy control exhibited better performance under environmental variations, strengthening data-driven decisionmaking.
Research Implications: The application of SCADA fostered technological, economic, and environmental advances, aligned with SDGs 7, 9, 12, and 13, reinforcing the role of intelligent automation in the energy transition of the agro-industrial sector.
Originality/Value: The study stands out for integrating emerging technologies and applying simulation to the agro-industrial context, offering a practical contribution to sustainable energy management and advancing Industry 4.0 in rural environments.
Keywords: SCADA, Energy Efficiency, Agroindustry, Automation, Sustainability, Industry 4.0.
RESUMO
Introdução: O presente estudo analisa o uso de sistemas SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) como ferramenta para a gestão eficiente de energia na agroindústria, setor caracterizado por alta demanda energética em processos como irrigação, refrigeração e armazenamento. A pesquisa teve como propósito desenvolver e simular, por meio do software CoDeSys, um modelo computacional de irrigação automatizada capaz de monitorar e controlar variáveis críticas de consumo energético em tempo real. Fundamentado em referenciais sobre automação industrial, eficiência energética e sustentabilidade, o trabalho adota como base teórica a norma ISO 50001 e estudos que destacam a integração entre SCADA, controle fuzzy e Internet das Coisas no contexto da Indústria 4.0. A metodologia consistiu na modelagem de um sistema composto por módulos de sensoriamento, atuação e controle inteligente, submetido a diferentes cenários experimentais simulando variações ambientais e falhas operacionais. Os resultados indicaram reduções médias de 12,5% no consumo de água e 9,3% no consumo de energia em comparação a sistemas convencionais, além de ganhos de eficiência e resposta imediata a falhas. As discussões demonstram que a automação aliada ao controle inteligente potencializa o uso racional de recursos e contribui para a sustentabilidade ambiental e econômica do setor. O estudo reforça a importância da gestão energética automatizada na promoção da competitividade e da sustentabilidade, em conformidade com os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável 7, 9, 12 e 13 da Agenda 2030.
Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo é desenvolver e simular, por meio do software CoDeSys, um modelo computacional de irrigação automatizada baseado em sistemas SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) voltado à gestão eficiente de energia na agroindústria.
Referencial Teórico: Fundamenta-se em conceitos de automação industrial, eficiência energética e sustentabilidade, com base em pesquisas anteriores e nas diretrizes da ISO 50001 (ABNT, 2018). Destaca-se a importância da integração entre SCADA, controle fuzzy e Internet das Coisas (IoT) no contexto da Indústria 4.0.
Método: O trabalho empregou simulações no ambiente CoDeSys, modelando um sistema de irrigação composto por módulos de sensoriamento, atuação e controle inteligente. Foram testados três cenários experimentais, contemplando variações climáticas, falhas operacionais e eventos inesperados, com coleta de dados de água, energia e eficiência.
Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados mostraram redução média de 12,5% no consumo de água e 9,3% no consumo de energia em comparação a sistemas convencionais, evidenciando ganhos de eficiência e sustentabilidade. O controle fuzzy demonstrou melhor desempenho frente às variações ambientais, fortalecendo a tomada de decisão baseada em dados.
Implicações da Pesquisa: A aplicação de SCADA promoveu avanços tecnológicos, econômicos e ambientais, com aderência aos ODS 7, 9, 12 e 13, reforçando o papel da automação inteligente na transição energética da agroindústria.
Originalidade/Valor: O estudo destaca-se pela integração de tecnologias emergentes e pela simulação aplicada ao contexto agroindustrial, oferecendo uma contribuição prática para a gestão energética sustentável e para o avanço da Indústria 4.0 no meio rural.
Palavras-chave: SCADA, Eficiência Energética, Agroindústria, Automação, Sustentabilidade, Indústria 4.0.
RESUMEN
Introdución: El presente estudio analiza el uso de sistemas SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) como herramienta para la gestión eficiente de la energía en la agroindustria, un sector caracterizado por una alta demanda energética en procesos como riego, refrigeración y almacenamiento. La investigación tuvo como propósito desarrollar y simular, mediante el software CoDeSys, un modelo computacional de riego automatizado capaz de monitorear y controlar variables críticas de consumo energético en tiempo real. Fundamentado en referencias sobre automatización industrial, eficiencia energética y sostenibilidad, el trabajo adopta como base teórica la norma ISO 50001 y estudios que destacan la integración entre SCADA, control difuso (fuzzy control) e Internet de las Cosas (IoT) en el contexto de la Industria 4.0. La metodología consistió en la modelización de un sistema compuesto por módulos de sensado, actuación y control inteligente, sometido a diferentes escenarios experimentales que simulan variaciones ambientales y fallas operativas. Los resultados indicaron reducciones promedio del 12,5% en el consumo de agua y del 9,3% en el consumo de energía en comparación con sistemas convencionales, además de ganancias en eficiencia y respuesta inmediata ante fallas. Las discusiones demuestran que la automatización aliada al control inteligente potencia el uso racional de los recursos y contribuye a la sostenibilidad ambiental y económica del sector. El estudio refuerza la importancia de la gestión energética automatizada en la promoción de la competitividad y la sostenibilidad, en conformidad con los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) 7, 9, 12 y 13 de la Agenda 2030.
Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio es desarrollar y simular, mediante el software CoDeSys, un modelo computacional de riego automatizado basado en sistemas SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) orientado a la gestión eficiente de la energía en la agroindustria.
Marco Teórico: Se fundamenta en conceptos de automatización industrial, eficiencia energética y sostenibilidad, basándose en investigaciones previas y en las directrices de la norma ISO 50001 (ABNT, 2018). Se destaca la importancia de la integración entre SCADA, control difuso e Internet de las Cosas (IoT) en el contexto de la Industria 4.0.
Método: El trabajo empleó simulaciones en el entorno CoDeSys, modelando un sistema de riego compuesto por módulos de sensado, actuación y control inteligente. Se probaron tres escenarios experimentales que contemplan variaciones climáticas, fallas operativas y eventos inesperados, con recolección de datos de agua, energía y eficiencia.
Resultados y Discusión: Los resultados mostraron una reducción promedio del 12,5% en el consumo de agua y del 9,3% en el consumo de energía en comparación con sistemas convencionales, evidenciando mejoras en eficiencia y sostenibilidad. El control difuso demostró un mejor desempeño frente a las variaciones ambientales, fortaleciendo la toma de decisiones basada en datos.
Implicaciones de la investigación: La aplicación de SCADA promovió avances tecnológicos, económicos y ambientales, con alineación a los ODS 7, 9, 12 y 13, reforzando el papel de la automatización inteligente en la transición energética de la agroindustria.
Originalidad/Valor: El estudio se destaca por la integración de tecnologías emergentes y por la simulación aplicada al contexto agroindustrial, ofreciendo una contribución práctica a la gestión energética sostenible y al avance de la Industria 4.0 en el ámbito rural.
Palabras clave: SCADA, Eficiencia Energética, Agroindustria, Automatización, Sostenibilidad, Industria 4.0.
1 INTRODUCTION
The agro-industrial sector plays a fundamental role in the economy, transforming agricultural raw materials into higher value-added products. However, one of the main concerns in this segment lies in the high energy consumption, present in stages such as production, storage, refrigeration, lighting, and various other essential systems. In this context, efficient energy management becomes indispensable to increase competitiveness, reduce operating costs, and promote environmental sustainability (Campos et al., 2018; Liu et al. 2019; Machado, 2019).
The application of supervisory control and data acquisition systems, technically known as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), has become established as an effective alternative to address these challenges. SCADA is a technology that integrates hardware and software, allowing for the monitoring, control, and optimization of industrial processes in real time. When directed towards energy management, the system provides significant benefits, such as reduced consumption, identification of waste, increased operational efficiency, and mitigation of environmental impacts (Boyer, 2016; Liu et al., 2019; Wang et al., 2020).
This study aims to develop and simulate, using the CoDeSys software, a computational model of automated irrigation capable of monitoring and controlling, in real time, critical variables of a small-scale production system in the agro-industrial sector. The proposal includes data collection simulation, advanced analyses, and equipment control, in order to support strategic decisions aimed at improving energy use (ABNT, 2018; ANEEL, 2023; IEA, 2023; Schneider Electric Brasil, 2023).
This study aims to contribute to raising awareness about the importance of energy management in the agro-industrial sector, promoting sustainability and business competitiveness. Therefore, this work represents an opportunity to improve internal processes and foster more sustainable and efficient practices in the use of energy resources.
2. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
2.1 SCADA (SUPERVISORY CONTROL AND DATA ACQUISITION)
SCADA ( Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition ) is a supervisory and data acquisition system widely used in various industrial sectors to monitor, control, and optimize processes in real time. It is a technology that integrates hardware and software, enabling operators to remotely supervise and control industrial processes efficiently and safely.
A key feature of SCADA is its ability to collect data from sensors and field devices distributed throughout an industrial plant, transmitting this information to a central control system. Figure 1 illustrates a typical example of a SCADA architecture.
The main components of a SCADA system include:
* Central control unit (computer or server);
* Communication interfaces (such as industrial or data networks);
* Remote data acquisition units (RTUs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs);
* Supervisory and control software that offers an intuitive graphical interface.
This interface allows operators to monitor the status of processes in real time, view variables of interest, receive alarms for critical events, and perform control actions on connected devices.
The flexibility and scalability of SCADA enable its application in a wide range of agroindustrial processes, including automated irrigation, temperature control in greenhouses, monitoring of refrigeration systems, and food production management. Given the growing demand for energy efficiency and sustainability, the use of SCADA in agribusiness is expected to expand, contributing to process optimization, cost reduction, and a decrease in environmental impact.
2.2 AGROINDUSTRY
Agribusiness is a strategic economic sector responsible for transforming agricultural raw materials into higher value-added manufactured products. Its role is central to the global economy, as it supplies food, beverages, fibers, and biochemical inputs for both human consumption and industrial applications. This sector is characterized by its heterogeneity, ranging from small family farms to large multinational corporations, and encompasses diverse segments such as agriculture, livestock farming, fishing, forestry, and food processing.
Within the agribusiness sector, energy management is of strategic importance for maximizing productivity, reducing costs, and promoting environmental sustainability. Processes such as irrigation, refrigeration, storage, and food processing are highly energyintensive, requiring systemic approaches and appropriate technologies for the efficient use of resources.
Furthermore, the agribusiness sector faces structural challenges, including commodity price volatility, the impacts of climate change, regulatory and environmental pressures, scarcity of natural resources, and increasing demand for sustainable and higher-quality products. In this context, the adoption of advanced energy management technologies, such as SCADA systems, represents a competitive advantage, as it enables real-time monitoring, remote control of activities, waste reduction, and improved production efficiency.
The socioeconomic importance of agribusiness is also evident in job creation, the strengthening of regional development, and the retention of populations in rural areas. Additionally, it contributes to global food security, ensuring food supply in the face of population growth. In short, agribusiness constitutes a multifaceted and strategic sector, essential for the world economy, food security, and sustainable development.
2.3 ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN THE AGRO-INDUSTRY
Energy efficiency in the agribusiness sector is a key factor in environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness. Given the intensity of energy use in its production processes, adopting practices and technologies that optimize consumption, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impacts is essential.
The use of renewable sources - such as solar, wind, biomass, and biogas energy - is a relevant axis for increasing energy efficiency and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, in addition to contributing to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. In parallel, energy management systems, such as SCADA, allow for continuous monitoring of consumption, identification of patterns, detection of faults, and implementation of corrective measures in real time (Bugarsky et al., 2011).
Strengthening energy efficiency also requires investments in measurement and automation technologies, as well as in the training of professionals responsible for the operation and maintenance of systems. Organizational culture plays an equally important role, demanding awareness and engagement from employees in adopting practices aimed at energy conservation.
In short, energy efficiency in agribusiness not only reduces costs and environmental impacts, but also consolidates the sector's resilience and sustainability in the face of contemporary global challenges.
2.4 ENERGY MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES
Energy management technologies comprise a set of tools and methodologies aimed at the rational and optimized use of energy in production systems. These technologies aim to monitor, control, and analyze energy consumption, identifying efficiency opportunities and mitigating waste.
Among the standout solutions is the SCADA system, which integrates hardware and software to supervise processes in real time, offering precise data that supports strategic decisions. Industrial automation, through programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and distributed control systems (DCS), also plays an essential role, enabling the precise operation of equipment and the implementation of energy-saving strategies.
The advancement of smart sensors and real-time monitoring devices enhances energy management by providing continuous data on equipment and process performance. Additionally, big data and machine learning techniques enable predictive analysis, anomaly detection, and forecasting of energy demands, expanding strategic planning capabilities.
Energy management systems (EMS), such as those established by the ISO 50001 standard, offer structured guidelines for setting targets, monitoring indicators, and continuously improving organizational energy performance. The integration of renewable sources, combined with energy storage technologies (batteries and thermal systems), increases autonomy and reduces energy vulnerability.
Other strategies include the use of efficient lighting systems, such as LED lamps combined with smart controls, and load management programs, which seek to shift consumption to times of lower demand or cost, exploring differentiated tariffs.
The effectiveness of energy management technologies depends on human engagement, achieved through continuous training and the promotion of an organizational culture geared towards sustainability.
In summary, energy management technologies are a cornerstone of the competitiveness and sustainability of agribusinesses. By integrating automation, digitalization, and renewable sources, these technologies enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs, and contribute to the transition towards production models with less environmental impact.
3 METHODOLOGY
This study is based on a systematic and progressive methodological approach.
Initially, an in-depth study was conducted of the agro-industry selected as the object of analysis, with emphasis on its production processes, energy systems employed, energy demand, consumption patterns, and potential sources of waste. This stage made it possible to understand the operational reality of the unit and identify bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement in energy management.
Subsequently, a detailed survey of information was conducted regarding the equipment in operation and the critical points requiring specific attention in energy management. This survey proved essential for mapping the main challenges faced by the agribusiness sector, offering a comprehensive and well-founded view of its energy situation.
Based on this data, a technical and economic feasibility analysis of applying SCADA systems in the studied context was carried out. The analysis considered the compatibility of the investment in hardware, software, and infrastructure with the expected benefits, especially regarding energy efficiency, reduction of operational costs, and sustainability gains. Within this framework, the specific requirements of the SCADA system focused on energy management in the agro-industry were defined, highlighting the critical monitoring points, the data essential for decision-making, and the alarms necessary for detecting faults or waste.
Subsequently, the possibility of customizing the SCADA software was investigated, in order to parameterize it for continuous monitoring of energy consumption, simulating the stages of receiving, processing, and storing the collected data. This phase allowed for the evaluation of the system's suitability to the particularities of the analyzed agribusiness. Additionally, it was proposed to encourage future work directed towards the development of intuitive graphical interfaces, capable of facilitating the visualization of information - such as trend graphs and energy performance reports - thus enhancing support for managers' decision-making.
In the next stage, a detailed analysis of the financial costs and benefits associated with the implementation of the SCADA system was conducted, considering the return on investment and the prospects for reducing operating expenses, saving energy, and accessing possible government incentives aimed at adopting sustainable technologies. Following this, a comprehensive final evaluation was carried out, encompassing the initially proposed objectives, the benefits obtained, and the lessons learned throughout the process. The results were consolidated into a technical-scientific report that fully describes all phases of the project - from the initial diagnosis to the final stages of analysis and implementation.
Finally, recommendations were presented for future projects of a similar nature, highlighting the positive impact of applying SCADA systems to the energy management of agribusinesses. In this way, the aim was to contribute to strengthening energy efficiency, reducing costs, and promoting sustainability in the sector, aligning with contemporary demands for technological innovation and socio-environmental responsibility.
4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
As a way to demonstrate the practical application of automated systems in agroindustrial processes, we propose the development of a computer simulation, using the CoDeSys software , aimed at monitoring and controlling an automated irrigation system (Fig. 2).
The system was modeled using the CoDeSys platform, an environment widely used in industry for its ability to integrate programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and data acquisition modules.
The model's architecture comprised three main subsystems:
1. Sensing Module, responsible for the continuous measurement of environmental variables;
2. Actuation Module, responsible for hydraulic actuation (valves and pumps);
3. Intelligent Control Module, based on fuzzy logic, for real-time decision making.
The application of SCADA systems in agro-industrial environments constitutes one of the most relevant trends associated with Industry 4.0 in the agricultural sector, as it integrates automation, intelligent monitoring, and energy efficiency (Kamilaris et al., 2017; Silva et al., 2022).
This proposal was structured to allow the analysis of three central dimensions of performance:
1. operational, related to the system's ability to respond to varying process conditions;
2. energy efficiency, linked to the efficient use of electricity and the optimization of energy resources; and
3. Water resources, associated with the rational and sustainable use of water in irrigation zones.
4.1 SYSTEM STRUCTURE AND SIMULATION CONFIGURATION
The system was designed for three independent irrigation zones, each equipped with sensors for soil moisture (0-100%), ambient temperature (-10 to 50 °C), and water flow rate (0-100 L/min). The actuators consisted of 2" solenoid valves and 5 kW centrifugal pumps with proportional opening control.
The fuzzy algorithm was structured with three input variables (humidity, temperature, and flow rate) and one output variable (irrigation time). The fuzzy inference rules were defined based on ideal parameters for short-cycle vegetables, according to guidelines by Wang et al. (2020) and studies by Bugarski et al. (2011) and Kalogirou (2001), which indicate humidity ranges between 60% and 80% as ideal for high productivity.
The simulation environment allowed for visualization of variables in real time, recording of operational logs, and application of artificial disturbances to test the system's robustness, such as temperature fluctuations and momentary communication failures with sensors.
4.2 SIMULATION SCENARIOS AND EXPERIMENTAL METHODOLOGY
Three experimental scenarios were designed, in a control system block diagram (Fig. 3), to validate the system response in typical operating situations of irrigated agro-industry.
This block diagram of a closed-loop control system represents, in a simplified way, the interaction between the main components of an automated system: the controller, the plant, and the feedback mechanism. In this model, the reference signal corresponds to the desired value of a process variable-for example, temperature, level, pressure, or humidity-that the system seeks to achieve. The controller continuously compares the reference value with the measured output of the plant and, based on the difference between the two, generates a control signal intended to adjust the plant's behavior, in order to minimize error and stabilize the system around the desired value.
In the context of SCADA systems, this diagram illustrates the principle of supervision and control applied to industrial automation. The controller can be implemented using classic algorithms or more advanced strategies, such as fuzzy logic or predictive control, while the plant corresponds to the monitored process. Feedback occurs through sensors that collect data in real time and send it to the SCADA system, allowing for the dynamic adjustment of operating variables and the optimization of energy consumption.
Thus, the control system block diagram highlights the conceptual structure that supports automation and intelligent process management, forming the theoretical basis for the integration of monitoring, control, and real-time decision-making-essential characteristics of SCADA systems applied to energy management and operational efficiency.
a) Scenario A - Hot and Dry Condition:
It simulates days of high temperature (38 °C) and low relative humidity (20%), with high water demand. The objective was to evaluate the system's behavior under maximum thermal load and verify its ability to automatically adjust the irrigation volume.
b) Scenario B - Main Pump Failure:
This simulates the interruption of one of the pumps' operation during the irrigation cycle. This test allows us to verify the operational resilience and functioning of the contingency mode, in which the second pump takes over part of the system's demand.
c) Scenario C - Unexpected Rain:
It introduces a moisture reading that abruptly exceeds the upper control threshold, assessing the system's ability to stop the irrigation process, thus preventing water and energy waste.
During the execution of each scenario, the system recorded the main variables at onehour intervals, totaling nine consecutive cycles (10:00 AM-6:00 PM):
a) Water consumption (L) : amount of water applied to each irrigation zone in a given period;
b) Energy consumption (kWh) : Amount of energy consumed by the water pumps in a given period; and c) Irrigation efficiency (%) : Ratio between the amount of water applied and the productivity of the crop.
The results were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis and calculation of the overall irrigation efficiency ( ηi ), defined by:
(ProQuest: ... denotes formula omitted.) (1)
where:
(Vu) = volume of water effectively absorbed by the soil (L)
(Vt) = total volume applied (L)
4.3 EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS
The analysis of this data allows us to identify opportunities to optimize water and energy consumption, reducing costs and the environmental impact of the irrigation system. Table 1 presents an extract of the results obtained on April 11, 2025, which can be extended to longer time intervals. The irrigation region of the selected crop was divided into 3 zones of equal area.
Data analysis reveals a correlation between temperature, humidity, and energy efficiency. During peak sunlight hours (11:00 AM-2:00 PM), an increase in energy consumption and a reduction in average irrigation efficiency (75%-78%) were observed, caused by higher evaporation. Conversely, between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, the system showed a recovery in efficiency (85%-90%), demonstrating the effectiveness of fuzzy control in compensating for environmental variables.
Comparing the simulated scenarios with the traditional irrigation regime (without automation), an average reduction of 12.5% in water consumption and 9.3% in energy consumption was observed. Furthermore, the system showed an immediate response to faults, interrupting operation in less than 2 seconds after leak detection.
4.4 DISCUSSION OF RESULTS
The results demonstrate that the use of SCADA systems integrated with fuzzy control algorithms provides a significant improvement in the energy and operational efficiency of automated irrigation systems.
Fuzzy control proved to be more efficient than conventional fixed-timing methods, as it adapts irrigation time to instantaneous environmental conditions. This characteristic reduces waste and improves the uniformity of water distribution, confirming the observations of Carli et al. (2013) on the gains obtained by intelligent automation in agricultural environments.
Furthermore, the integration of SCADA with flow and humidity sensors enables predictive maintenance, preventing critical failures in the hydraulic system. This approach is aligned with the trend of precision agriculture, which seeks data-driven decision-making and closed-loop control (IEA, 2023).
Another relevant aspect is the possibility of integrating SCADA with renewable energy sources - such as photovoltaic systems - to power the pumps and controllers. Recent studies (Martin-Ortega & Berbel, 2010) demonstrate that the combination of solar energy and irrigation automation can reduce annual operating costs by up to 40%, making the system self-sustainable and environmentally neutral.
This model also highlights the applicability of emerging technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things) and machine learning to optimize irrigation control. Future development of this research could incorporate neural networks for dynamic adjustment of fuzzy parameters, increasing control precision and predictive capacity in the face of seasonal and microclimatic variations.
4.5 TECHNOLOGICAL, ECONOMIC AND SUSTAINABLE IMPACTS
The simulation confirms that the adoption of automation technologies in the agribusiness sector promotes simultaneous gains in three areas:
1. Technological : increased operational reliability and integration capabilities with IoT sensors, remote communication systems, and solar panels.
2. Economical : reduces pumping costs and water waste, and extends the lifespan of pumps and valves.
3. Environmental : mitigating the impacts associated with the intensive use of water and energy, contributing to the reduction of the carbon footprint of agricultural production.
However, adoption barriers persist, such as the high initial implementation cost, the scarcity of technical training, and cultural resistance to innovation. Overcoming these challenges requires specific public policies, tax incentives, and professional training programs focused on automation and energy efficiency.
Furthermore, the integration between universities, technological institutes, and the productive sector must be strengthened to foster applied innovation and accelerate the diffusion of digital technologies in the field (Zambon et al., 2019).
4.6 SYNTHESIS AND SCIENTIFIC IMPLICATIONS
Overall, the study shows that SCADA systems combined with intelligent control techniques constitute a robust tool for optimizing the use of water and energy resources in the agro-industry.
The developed model not only demonstrated technical feasibility, but also showed strong adherence to the guidelines of the 2030 Agenda, especially the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 7, 9, 12 and 13), which address clean energy, industrial innovation, responsible consumption and mitigation of climate change.
The research also reinforces the view that energy efficiency is a systemic phenomenon, dependent on both technological innovation and organizational management and a culture of sustainability. The widespread dissemination of intelligent automation practices can transform agribusiness into a benchmark sector in technological sustainability and the rational use of resources.
5 CONCLUSION
The case studies analyzed, as well as the test case developed, demonstrate that energy management in the agribusiness sector is a strategic element for promoting operational efficiency, reducing costs, and mitigating environmental impacts. The adoption of advanced technologies, such as SCADA systems and automation solutions, has shown an effective capacity to optimize energy consumption, enabling the identification of areas of waste and the implementation of high-impact corrective measures.
The integration of renewable energy sources, notably solar and biomass, has proven equally relevant in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and, consequently, greenhouse gas emissions, in line with global commitments to sustainability and combating climate change. These results reinforce the need for the agribusiness sector to adopt a systemic and comprehensive approach to energy management, incorporating intelligent monitoring, process automation, and diversification of its energy matrix.
However, despite the progress observed, structural and organizational challenges persist, among which the high initial investment costs, the scarcity of professionals with specialized technical skills, and cultural resistance to the adoption of new practices stand out. These barriers highlight the urgency of continuous investments in education, applied research, and technological development, in order to prepare the sector to overcome obstacles and increase its competitiveness.
In this scenario, collaboration between the public sector, the private sector, and research institutions emerges as an indispensable condition for consolidating a sustainable agroindustrial model. Effective public policies, financial incentives, training programs, and strategic partnerships can accelerate the dissemination of energy management technologies, boosting innovation and modernization in the sector.
In short, energy management in agribusiness is not only a technical opportunity, but a strategic imperative to ensure the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of the sector. With the continuous engagement of companies, governments, and other stakeholders, it becomes possible to envision a future in which agribusiness contributes significantly to a lowcarbon economy, while strengthening its competitive position and promoting concrete benefits for society and the environment.
References
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