Techno-economic analysis of a recirculating tilapia-lettuce aquaponics system

Recirculating aquaponics systems (RAS) are known to provide an economic alternative for producing healthy foods address health disparities and food scarcity in abandoned urban areas (food deserts) with limited water land resources. This study integrated design operational data into a techno-economic analysis (TEA) the profitability of commercial-scale tilapia-lettuce system U.S. Midwest. An pilot-scale plant was used obtain necessary TEA modeling. A mid-size commercial 5300 L fish tank 62–63 m 2 grow bed space considered analysis. The initial investment cost $69,230–69,600, greenhouse constituting 42% cost. annual operating expense $33,100 - $33,300, labor being major contributor (52%). Sensitivity performed on land, equipment, feed, utility costs revenues from lettuce, which identified as prime factors controlling profitability. market value lettuce its contributed studied RAS revenue side. cash flow showed that can be profitable, offering positive net present (NPV) $9000 $12,220. Automated quality monitoring further reduced costs, increasing NPV $52,220 – $55,545. TEA, augmented process uncertainty-based financial performance evaluation identifying key parameters, may serve framework evaluating viability similar production different locations. • Aquaponics is sustainable alternative. Techno-economic found (1400 gal tank) profitable. Labor facility