The dual-use of land for both energy production and agriculture, known as agrivoltaics, has proven to be an innovative and sustainable approach to tackling the challenges of food, energy, and water security. Recent research from University of Sheffield [53.38°N, 1.49°W], while studying in regions East Africa, demonstrates that this approach has implications that resonate strongly with countries already progressing plans to transition energy to climate neutrality and bolster food security.
What is Agrivoltaics?
Agrivoltaics involves integrating solar panels into farmland, allowing crops to grow underneath or between photovoltaic (PV) panels. This not only generates renewable electricity but also:
- Shields crops from excessive heat or UV damage.
- Reduces evaporation, conserving water.
- Captures rainwater runoff for irrigation.
Key Benefits
- Maximising Land Use:
- In densely populated or arable regions, agrivoltaics optimises limited land resources, producing food and energy simultaneously.
- Studies show that combining food and energy production increases overall land productivity by nearly 80% compared to single-use systems.
- Resilience to Climate Challenges:
- Partial shading from solar panels protects crops from heatwaves and reduces water demand—a significant advantage as extreme weather events become more frequent.
- Crops like leafy greens and legumes thrive under the modified microclimates created by PV panels, offering new opportunities for agriculture in temperate regions.
- Clean Energy Integration:
- Agrivoltaics supports the decarbonisation of agriculture, one of the largest greenhouse gas-emitting sectors. By using on-site solar energy, farms can power irrigation systems, machinery, and processing facilities.
Practical Applications
1. Energy-Efficient Farming
- Denmark and Germany: Agrivoltaics could enhance solar energy output while maintaining agricultural output, aligning with ambitious climate targets.
- Canada: The system could benefit regions with shorter growing seasons by creating microclimates that extend crop viability.
2. Reshaping Rural Economies
- Integrating agrivoltaics into rural areas creates jobs, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and offers new income streams through energy production.
3. Water Conservation in Drier Climates
- For areas experiencing drought or limited rainfall, rainwater harvesting from panel runoff and reduced evaporation can make agriculture more sustainable.
Success Stories and Potential Barriers
Case Studies:
- Research in East Africa shows 50% reductions in irrigation needs while increasing yields for drought-sensitive crops.
- In Germany, agrivoltaic projects achieved better crop resilience during hot summers, with farmers reporting greener, more vigorous crops under panels.
Challenges:
- Initial costs for infrastructure can be high, requiring government incentives or subsidies.
- Farmers need training and support to implement agrivoltaic systems effectively.
A Call to Action
Governments and communities can adapt lessons from agrivoltaics to their unique conditions, fostering innovation in agricultural and energy practices. By embracing dual-use systems, we can address the intertwined challenges of food security and renewable energy, ensuring sustainable living for future generations.
Source
Harvesting the sun twice: Energy, food and water benefits from agrivoltaics in East Africa, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2025-02
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