Investment Analysis of the Solar Cell for Whiteleg Shrimp Farmers

Abstract

This research aims to (1) study the characteristics of a farm, the costs of raising, and the management of energy within a whiteleg shrimp farming system, and (2) incremental investment analysis of solar cells categorized by farm size. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with shrimp farmers use solar cells, officials from the Department of Fisheries and suppliers and installers solar cells in shrimp farm total 5 individuals and a questionnaire of 150 shrimp farmers, and analyzed the data using descriptive statistics, cost-benefit analysis and financial investment analysis. The study found that the characteristics of white shrimp farms were as follows small-sized shrimp farms have an average pond size of 3.14 rai, medium-sized farms have an average pond size of 4.07 rai, and large-sized farms have an average pond size of 5.48 rai, raise shrimp in 2-3 cycles per year, Most farms using high-density farming methods and farms have GAP standard and use energy to manage in shrimp farming practices, primarily through the use of water beaters, water aerators and lighting systems and other tools, using electrical energy as the main source followed by fuel. The financial investment of installing solar cells categorized by small size, medium size, and large size with an electrical generating capacity of 1,100.00, 2,200.00, and 4,400.00 watts and it found that a net present value equal to 34,878.34, 114,837.41, and 260,315.20 with a benefit-to-cost ratio of 1.63, 2.58, and 2.96. Internal rate of return equal to 9, 17, and 19 percent and have discounted payback periods in years of 7.95, 5.2, and 4.95, respectively.