Agrivoltaic

What is Agrivoltaic?

Agrivoltaics is the practice of using the same land for both agriculture and solar power production, simultaneously. It is commonly called agrisolar or dual-use solar by many. The concept of agrivoltaics is interesting as it involves the installation of photovoltaic solar panels on land intended for crops or cattle. This gives the land a dual purpose while allowing food production and clean energy to happen side by side.

Importance of agrivoltaics

Agrivoltaic solutions are important as they not only supports agricultural enterprises with diversified revenue sources using a renewable energy source but it also provides ecological benefits. For instance, solar panels protect the crops located underneath from humidity, high temperatures and high solar irradiation.

Uses of agrivoltaics

This solar energy and agriculture integration has multiple fitment. Some include:

• Photovoltaic greenhouses: where solar panels are placed on the greenhouse roof or exterior. These panels act as a canopy, regulating the temperature and humidity inside the greenhouse, which reduces energy consumption for climate control. The electricity produced powers greenhouse operations, cutting costs and boosting sustainability.
• Grazing and livestock farming: Solar installations can be designed over grazing land, allowing livestock such as sheep or goats to shelter under panels. This dual use of land supports animal welfare by providing shade and reduces vegetation maintenance costs.
• Powering agricultural operations: Can be used directly on farms for powering irrigation pumps, lighting, fencing, and other equipment vital to farming operations.
• Water extraction and irrigation: Agrivoltaics solutions can run pumps that extract water from wells, enabling more efficient irrigation systems and supporting crop growth in arid regions. This agrivoltaics solution is a game-changer for sustainable farming.
• Supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services: Some solar panels on farms incorporate pollinator-friendly habitats under and around solar panels, enhancing biodiversity and promoting ecosystem health.

Examples of agrivoltaics

One of India’s earliest examples of agrivoltaics pilot projects is a 105 kWp system on 1-acre at Jodhpur (plus a 25 kWp at Bhuj). It was installed by Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI). Crops were grown under elevated solar panels where in they utilised land for both solar and agriculture.