Agri-photovoltaics: This is how farmers secure their yields and the future!

Agri-photovoltaics: This is how farmers secure their yields and the future!

Agri-photovoltaics (agri-PV) is increasingly seen as a future model for agriculture. This innovative approach combines agricultural production with solar energy production on the same area. This not only helps to stabilize income, but also enables investments to be secured and a valuable contribution to the energy transition. In Austria, for example, interest in Agri-PV is growing, supported by initiatives such as the Agri-PV practical guide and pilot projects in wine and fruit growing. Loud EcoNews The installation of photovoltaic modules over arable or grassland areas is carried out without giving up the agricultural use of the areas.

Studies also show that Agri-PV can promote plant growth under certain conditions. Factors such as reduced evaporation and protection from extreme weather play an important role. In livestock farming, it is also possible to keep animals under the PV systems. However, investments in Agri-PV require a realistic cost calculation in order to make an informed decision. This is done by the Fraunhofer ISE highlighted, which emphasizes that funding programs such as the Renewable Energy Expansion Act can help overcome financial hurdles.

Advantages and challenges of agri-PV

The advantages of agri-PV are obvious: it not only generates renewable electricity, but also increases the resilience of agricultural operations to crop failures. According to the Fraunhofer ISE guide, Agri-PV can also reduce water consumption and costs. Consistent with TechZeitgeist This approach offers the opportunity to operate sustainably and achieve higher productivity.

However, farmers also face certain challenges during implementation. These concern technical integration problems, lengthy approval procedures and acceptance among the population. Different regional building regulations and the need for coordination with the responsible building authority make business planning complex. The visual perception of agri-PV systems in rural areas also plays a crucial role in their acceptance.

Future prospects and innovations

Technical developments in agri-PV offer numerous opportunities. New systems, such as high-elevation systems for large-scale cultivation or innovative technologies such as movable solar panels, could further optimize yields. According to the data collected, pilot projects show that certain crops can achieve better yields under solar panels, while others, such as wheat, may suffer losses. Therefore, an individual assessment of each area is essential.

With a thoughtful project approach that takes into account agricultural, technical and legal requirements, Agri-PV could play a key role in connecting agriculture and renewable energy in the coming years. Supported by politics and adapted funding programs, this approach could not only revolutionize agriculture, but also make an important contribution to the global energy transition.