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Agri-photovoltaics (Agri-PV) refers to a combined method of utilizing land for agricultural plant production (photosynthesis) and PV electricity production (photovoltaics). The ZHAW Symposium on Agri-Photovoltaics brought together pioneers and key stakeholders from the agriculture, energy, and government sectors to explore the potential of combining solar technology with farming. Here are the key takeaways of PhD candidate and PV expert Achidi Frick:
Farmers' Perspectives: Innovations and Insights
While attendance from farmers was limited, one pioneering farmer shared his experiences. Although his AgriPV installation didn’t fully meet high expectations, it had no negative impacts on the agricultural core. Here’s a breakdown of the solutions tested:
- AgroVerti: A vertical solar setup that boosts solar yield with minimal disruption to farming activities.
- AgroTracker and Insolight: Horizontal PV systems that have a greater impact on agriculture, requiring artificial irrigation due to less natural rainfall on the crops. However, they also protect crops from extreme weather, pests, and diseases at the same time.
Regulatory Challenges in Switzerland
In Switzerland, challenges lie in unclear regulations, with unclear guidelines making it essential to engage effectively with the farmers, communities, and many stakeholders involved. On 29 September 2023, the National Council and the State Council created the basis in the Federal Spatial Planning Act as part of the Electricity Act with the new Art. 24b E-RPG, which affects the authorisation requirements for PV systems on agricultural land. This means that the Agri-PV is regulated in principle at legislative level.
The canton of Thurgau is leading the way, establishing a list of benefits that AgriPV projects must demonstrate. Achieving “zero agricultural yield reduction,” as required in Switzerland, remains a challenge. In Germany, as an example, the agricultural yield must be at least 66 per cent of the reference yield after construction of the agrivoltaic system.
Innovative AgriPV Systems
Manufacturers showcased AgriPV systems tailored for crops like grapes, apples, tomatoes, and berries. Achidi highlights significantly reduced necessity of irrigation — in the showcased application, pumpkins needed 63% less water, tomatoes 30%. Moreover, these systems demonstrated effective temperature regulation, reducing summer heat and increasing winter warmth, thereby protecting crops from extreme weather conditions.
Advancing AgriVoltaics in Switzerland
Despite regulatory challenges, participants at the symposium are determined to find solutions for the energy transition in Switzerland. Early field projects are already showing promising results for crops using photovoltaic systems.
At Green Energy Venture, we’re leading pioneering projects in Swiss Agri-Photovoltaics to make utility-scale applications a reality. With strong local ties, we’re addressing the technical and human challenges to drive the country’s energy transition forward. We’re committed to making progress! 💪
Interested in learning more? Contact us!
