Agrivoltaics

An agrivoltaic production system is characterized by the combination of traditional agriculture and photovoltaic energy production on the same site. To achieve optimal, sustainable land use, both optimal energy production and economically profitable crop yields are essential. In this project, a balance is sought between PV energy and shading under solar panels, taking into account practical cultivation habits and requirements. We aim to develop an impact model that in function of the PV configuration, calculates the generated energy and the amount of ground irradiation; thus, optimization is possible to provide the best possible trade-off between crop yield and energy. Using this impact model, some PV configurations are designed and built. The required structures are designed with objective of minimum impact on agricultural activities and landscape disturbance. Different systems (dynamic-static, semi-transparent-opaque) are tested and compared. Innovative control algorithms are implemented to protect crops according to energy demand and weather conditions. These test sites are additionally used to verify the impact model, where accurate and reliable measurement instrumentation in open space is necessary. In a second phase, the economic study is carried out in deeper detail. Possible business models will be established and taken into account for further optimization of the PV configuration.