Agrivoltaics, also known as agrophotovoltaics or APV, is a technology that involves combining photovoltaic (PV) panels with crops on the same land. In this system, the crops are grown underneath or alongside the solar panels, which provide shade and generate renewable energy at the same time. Agrivoltaics is a unique and innovative way of utilizing land resources for both food and energy production.
The hallmark characteristic of agrivoltaics is the sharing of sunlight between the two energy conversion systems: photovoltaics and photosynthesis.1
Importance of Agrivoltaics
The importance of Agrivoltaics lies in its ability to address two of the world’s most pressing challenges: food security and renewable energy generation. By combining agriculture and solar energy, Agrivoltaics allows for the efficient use of land, water, and other resources. It also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase crop productivity, and support the economic development of rural areas.
Moreover, Agrivoltaics can contribute to the global transition to renewable energy by creating a new market for solar energy while also addressing the land use challenges of traditional solar farms. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about energy and agriculture, and it could play a significant role in creating a more sustainable future.
How Agrivoltaics Works
Agrivoltaics technology is a type of integrated photovoltaic (PV) system that combines agriculture and solar energy production in the same land area. In an Agrivoltaic system, solar PV panels are installed above the crops or alongside them, providing shade and generating electricity at the same time. This technology can be applied in various forms, depending on the specific crops, climate, and solar panel configurations.
The Agrivoltaic system is designed to create an optimal microclimate for the crops underneath the solar panels, improving their growth and yield. The solar panels provide shade to the crops, which helps to reduce water evaporation and limit temperature fluctuations, creating a more stable environment for the plants. Additionally, the panels can act as a windbreak, preventing damage from strong winds and reducing soil erosion.
Components of an Agrivoltaic System
An Agrivoltaic system consists of several components that work together to optimize the performance of both the solar panels and the crops. These components include:
- Solar Panels: The solar panels in an Agrivoltaic system are typically mounted on a structure above the crops or on the ground, adjacent to the crops. The panels can be oriented in various directions, depending on the specific climate and the requirements of the crops.
- Racking System: The racking system is used to mount the solar panels. It can be designed to maximize the amount of sunlight that reaches the crops. This system can be adjusted to vary the amount of shade provided to the crops as the sun moves across the sky.
- Crops: The crops grown in an Agrivoltaic system can vary depending on the region and the specific conditions of the site. However, certain crops are better suited for this system due to their ability to thrive under partial shade.
- Irrigation System: An irrigation system is necessary to ensure that the crops receive adequate water, especially in areas with limited rainfall. Drip irrigation is a common method used in Agrivoltaic systems. It provides precise water delivery to the root zone of the plants.
- Monitoring System: A monitoring system is used to track the performance of the Agrivoltaic system and to ensure that the crops are growing optimally. This system can include sensors to measure soil moisture, temperature, and other parameters.
Integration of Solar Panels and Crops
The integration of solar panels and crops in Agrivoltaic systems offers several advantages. The shade provided by the solar panels can help to maintain a more consistent temperature and reduce water loss due to evaporation. Additionally, the solar panels can protect crops from heavy rain and wind damage. In some cases, the shade can also help to reduce the growth of weeds, which can compete with crops for resources.
Benefits of Agrivoltaics in Agriculture
There are several benefits of using solar energy in agriculture. Food and energy production don’t need to be competing objectives. They can both coexist in the same land through an integrated approach. Here are some of these benefits:
Increased Land Use Efficiency
One of the primary benefits of Agrivoltaics in agriculture is the increased land use efficiency. Traditional agriculture requires separate land for crop cultivation and energy production, resulting in a significant amount of land usage. Agrivoltaic systems, on the other hand, combine both agriculture and energy production on the same land, which maximizes the land’s potential output.
Agrivoltaic systems can increase land use efficiency by up to 60-70% compared to traditional agriculture.2 The land can be used for growing crops and generating electricity at the same time. Thus leading to the production of food and renewable energy from a single land area.
Enhanced Crop Productivity
Another benefit of Agrivoltaics in agriculture is enhanced crop productivity. The shade provided by the solar panels can protect crops from harsh sunlight, leading to improved plant growth and yield. The shade also helps to maintain a more consistent temperature, reducing water loss due to evaporation and preventing heat stress in crops.
Agrivoltaic systems can increase crop productivity by up to 60-70% compared to traditional farming methods.3 The shade provided by the solar panels can also help to reduce the growth of weeds, which compete with crops for resources.
Reduced Water Consumption
Agrivoltaic systems can help to reduce water consumption in agriculture. The solar panels provide shade, which reduces the amount of water lost through evaporation. This means that the crops require less water to grow, which can lead to significant water savings.
In addition, some Agrivoltaic systems are designed to capture and store rainwater. This water can be used for irrigation, reducing the amount of water required from other sources. By reducing water consumption, Agrivoltaic systems can help to address the growing concern of water scarcity, particularly in regions that experience frequent droughts.
Reduced Soil Erosion and Degradation
Soil erosion and degradation are significant problems in agriculture. Traditional farming methods can lead to soil degradation and nutrient depletion, which can affect crop yields and long-term soil health. Soil erosion can also lead to water pollution, as sediment and nutrients are carried away by runoff.
Agrivoltaic systems can help to reduce soil erosion and degradation by providing shade. This helps to maintain soil moisture and prevent soil erosion caused by wind and water. The crops also provide ground cover, which helps to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
Besides that, Agrivoltaic systems can improve soil health by reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The shade provided by the solar panels can help to control weed growth, reducing the need for herbicides. This can lead to improved soil health over time, as the soil is not subjected to harmful chemicals.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Agrivoltaic systems can also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture. Traditional farming methods rely heavily on fossil fuels for irrigation, transportation, and fertilizer production. These activities contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change.
They can also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by generating clean energy from solar panels. By using renewable energy, farmers can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, which can help to lower their carbon footprint. Additionally, Agrivoltaic systems can reduce the need for conventional electricity, which is often generated from fossil fuels.
Economic Benefits for Farmers
Agrivoltaic systems can provide economic benefits for farmers. By generating their own energy, farmers can reduce their electricity bills, which can lead to significant cost savings over time. In addition, some governments offer incentives for farmers who invest in renewable energy, such as tax credits and subsidies.
Agrivoltaic systems can also help to diversify farmers’ income streams. In addition to selling their crops, farmers can sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid. This can provide an additional source of revenue, particularly in areas with high electricity prices.
Furthermore, Agrivoltaic systems can help to increase crop yields, which can lead to higher profits for farmers.
Crops That Work Best with Agrivoltaics
When selecting crops for Agrivoltaic systems, there are several factors to consider. These include the crop’s light requirements, the amount of shade provided by the solar panels, and the compatibility of the crop with the system’s other components.
Different crops have different light requirements. Some crops require full sun, while others can tolerate shade. When selecting crops for an Agrivoltaic system, farmers should consider the amount of shade provided by the solar panels and select crops that are appropriate for the available light conditions.
Farmers should also consider the compatibility of the crop with the system’s other components. For example, some crops may be more compatible with drip irrigation systems, while others may require different irrigation methods. Similarly, some crops may be more compatible with the type of soil used in the Agrivoltaic system.
Agrivoltaic systems have demonstrated success with several crops such as:
- Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all crops that have been successfully grown in Agrivoltaic systems. These crops have relatively low light requirements and can tolerate partial shade.
- Vegetables: Leafy greens, such as lettuce and spinach, and root vegetables, such as carrots and beets, have also been successfully grown in Agrivoltaic systems. These crops can tolerate partial shade and benefit from the reduced heat stress provided by the shade.
- Herbs: Herbs, such as basil, thyme, and parsley, have also been successfully grown in Agrivoltaic systems. These crops have relatively low light requirements and can tolerate partial shade.
- Grains: Some grains, such as wheat and barley, have also been successfully grown in Agrivoltaic systems. These crops can tolerate partial shade and benefit from the reduced heat stress provided by the shade.
Challenges and Limitations of Crop Selection
- Light requirements: Certain crops require full sun and may not perform well in Agrivoltaic systems, which provide partial shade. These crops may not receive enough light to grow and produce optimal yields. Additionally, some crops may require specific light wavelengths for optimal growth, which may not be available in Agrivoltaic systems.
- Compatibility with other components: The compatibility of crops with the other components of the Agrivoltaic system, such as irrigation and soil type, is also important. Some crops may not be compatible with drip irrigation systems or may require specific soil types.
- System design and configuration: The design and configuration of Agrivoltaic systems can also impact crop selection. For example, the spacing between solar panels and crops can impact the amount of shade provided and the availability of light. The angle and orientation of the solar panels can also impact the amount of shade provided and the light available to crops.
- Climate and location: The climate and location of the Agrivoltaic system can also impact crop selection. Different crops have different temperature and moisture requirements, and farmers must select crops that are appropriate for the local climate and weather conditions.
Design and Implementation of an Agrivoltaic System
Designing and implementing an Agrivoltaic system requires careful planning and execution. The following steps outline the process involved in setting up an Agrivoltaic system:
- Site assessment: The first step in setting up an Agrivoltaic system is to assess the site for its solar potential and soil quality. The site should receive adequate sunlight throughout the day and have fertile soil to support crop growth.
- System design: The next step is to design the Agrivoltaic system, which involves determining the number and orientation of solar panels, the spacing between panels and crops, and the irrigation and drainage systems. The system design should take into account the specific crop requirements and local climate and weather conditions.
- Equipment selection: Once the system design is finalized, the next step is to select the equipment needed for the Agrivoltaic system. This includes solar panels, mounting hardware, irrigation, and drainage systems, and any other necessary equipment.
- Crop selection: Farmers must carefully select crops that are appropriate for the available light conditions and compatible with the other components of the Agrivoltaic system.
- Installation: The installation process involves installing solar panels, mounting hardware, irrigation and drainage systems, and any other necessary equipment. The spacing between solar panels and crops should be optimized to maximize sunlight exposure while providing adequate shade for the crops.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the optimal performance of an Agrivoltaic system. This includes monitoring the solar panels and irrigation systems, pruning crops as needed, and adjusting the spacing between solar panels and crops as the crops grow.
Factors to Consider when Designing an Agrivoltaic System
When designing an Agrivoltaic system, farmers need to take into consideration several factors, such as:
- Solar potential: The Agrivoltaic system should be designed to maximize the amount of sunlight that reaches the solar panels while providing adequate shading for the crops. The orientation and tilt of the solar panels should be optimized for the specific location and angle of the sun.
- Crop requirements: The Agrivoltaic system should be designed to meet the specific requirements of the crops being grown. This includes determining the appropriate spacing between crops and solar panels, as well as the type and frequency of irrigation needed.
- Soil quality: The Agrivoltaic system should be designed to support healthy soil and crop growth. This includes selecting crops that are compatible with the local soil conditions and incorporating organic matter into the soil as needed.
- Climate and weather conditions: The Agrivoltaic system should be designed to withstand the local climate and weather conditions. This includes selecting appropriate crops and irrigation systems for the local climate, as well as ensuring that the system can withstand extreme weather events such as storms and high winds.
- Equipment selection: The Agrivoltaic system should be designed using high-quality equipment that is appropriate for the specific location and application. This includes selecting solar panels that are efficient and durable, as well as irrigation systems that are appropriate for the specific crops being grown.
Challenges to the Adoption and Expansion of Agrivoltaics
While agrivoltaics has the potential to revolutionize agriculture and renewable energy, there are still several barriers that need to be overcome for wider adoption and expansion. Some of these challenges include:
- High upfront costs: The initial investment required for setting up an agrivoltaic system can be high, which can deter some farmers from adopting the technology.
- Limited availability of information: While there is growing interest in agrivoltaics, there is still a limited amount of information and resources available to farmers who are interested in implementing the technology.
- Regulatory hurdles: There may be regulatory hurdles that make it difficult for farmers to set up agrivoltaic systems on their land, particularly if they are located in areas with strict zoning regulations or other land-use restrictions.
- Limited research: While there have been many successful agrivoltaic systems implemented around the world, there is still a need for further research to optimize the technology and determine the best practices for implementation.
Potential Solutions to Overcome these Challenges
To overcome these challenges, some potential solutions have been proposed. For example:
- Government incentives: Governments could offer incentives, such as tax breaks or grants, to farmers who adopt agrivoltaic systems. This could help offset some of the high upfront costs associated with the technology.
- Education and outreach: More resources and information could be made available to farmers who are interested in adopting agrivoltaics. This could include workshops, webinars, and other educational programs that guide how to design and implement an agrivoltaic system.
- Policy changes: Governments could work to streamline regulations and policies that may be hindering the adoption of agrivoltaics. This could include revising zoning regulations, providing funding for research, and offering other forms of support to farmers who are interested in adopting the technology.
- Continued research: More research is needed to optimize agrivoltaic systems and determine the best practices for implementation. This could include research on crop selection, optimal design configurations, and the potential for integrating other renewable energy technologies, such as wind power, into agrivoltaic systems.
As these and other solutions are explored and implemented, agrivoltaics will likely continue to gain momentum and play an increasingly important role in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy production.
Conclusion
Agrivoltaics is an innovative technology that is gaining popularity due to its multiple benefits. These benefits include increased crop productivity, reduced water consumption, and economic benefits for farmers. Additionally, agrivoltaics can reduce soil erosion, greenhouse gas emissions.
For a successful agrivoltaic system, factors like crop selection, solar panel orientation, shading, and spacing should be considered carefully. Several successful agrivoltaic systems have been implemented in various parts of the world, including Japan, India, and the United States.
With the increasing demand for renewable energy and sustainable agriculture practices, agrivoltaics presents a promising solution to address both challenges simultaneously. It offers a unique opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and enhance soil health. Agrivoltaics can also increase land use efficiency while producing clean energy and food. Policies and regulations that support the adoption and expansion of agrivoltaics should be put in place. It is crucial to ensure that agrivoltaics is accessible and affordable for small-scale farmers and communities.
References
1. NREL. The 5 Cs of Agrivoltaic Success Factors in the United States: Lessons From the InSPIRE Research Study. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy22osti/83566.pdf
2. Kumpanalaisatit, M., Setthapun, M., Sintuya, H., Pattiya, A., Jansri, S. N. (2022) Current status of agrivoltaic systems and their benefits to energy, food, environment, economy, and society. Sustainable Production and Consumption 33, 952–963
3. Ibidem
