ENABLING DUAL USE OF LAND IN RURAL AREAS

In Switzerland, AgriVoltaics could potentially generate five times the country’s electricity needs. Let’s explore how combining agriculture and photovoltaics can drive a sustainable energy transition in rural areas.
AgriVoltaics is the integration of agricultural production with photovoltaic (solar) energy generation. This dual-use approach offers farmers new ways to combat climate change while creating additional revenue from electricity.
AgriVoltaics: Merging Agriculture and Solar Energy

Maximizing Potential in Rural Areas

The greatest theoretical potential for AgriVoltaics lies in open arable land, followed by grassland and pastures. Even permanent crops like vineyards and orchards hold potential, though to a lesser degree.

Using bifacial solar modules - which capture sunlight from both sides - can slightly boost winter electricity production compared to rooftop solar systems. These systems take advantage of reflective surfaces like snow or grass, maximizing solar output.

Additional Benefits on Grassland

Studies suggest that agriculture can benefit from solar installations. Vertical solar panels reduce soil erosion and, during hot summers, help retain soil moisture. Livestock, like cows and sheep, can find shade under these panels, improving their well-being.

Dual Land Use in Practice

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) has replaced machinery with sheep to maintain railway embankments—a perfect example of dual land use. Now, imagine applying this concept to solar energy: blending renewable energy production with agricultural use.

AgriVoltaic Solutions for Rural Areas

Cows and sheep naturally seek shade, and partial shade helps grass grow better. Knowing this, we've developed two modular AgriVoltaic systems using renewable materials:

Ground-Mounted Solar (Overhead Agri-PV)

  • Ideal for flat grazing areas, offering cover and shade for livestock.
  • Uses bifacial solar panels on wooden substructures, anchored without concrete.
  • Maximizes land use with highly efficient solar energy, benefiting both animals and crops.

Vertically Mounted Solar (Interspaced Agri-PV)

  • Best for hilly, non-alpine areas to provide partial shade.
  • Ensures enough spacing for farming equipment.
  • Increases overall land efficiency by combining solar energy with crop production.

Discover More

Our wooden solar installations merge modern power plants with renewable materials, improving microclimates, protecting against extreme weather, and optimizing water usage - all while generating clean electricity.

Curious to find out more? Contact us!

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