In line with the European Union’s ambitious objectives, which aim to deploy approximately 750 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy by 2030, the concept of agricultural photovoltaics (PV) is gaining prominence. A study conducted by the German Energy Agency (dena) highlights the significant market ramp-up of agricultural PV in Europe, driven by funding programs and dedicated legislations.
At the forefront of this movement is the upcoming Intersolar Europe exhibition, scheduled to take place from June 19–21, 2024, in Munich. As part of The smarter E Europe, the continent’s largest alliance of energy industry exhibitions, Intersolar Europe will showcase various technologies, products, and solutions, offering insights into best practices and the latest developments in the solar industry.
Agricultural PV represents a novel approach that combines agricultural production with electricity generation on the same surface, thus mitigating competition between photovoltaics and photosynthesis. European countries such as Germany and France are spearheading this transition with extensive subsidies and dedicated legislation to promote agricultural PV. However, the absence of uniform legislation across the EU complicates matters for international investors and project developers.
The benefits of agricultural PV are manifold, including the reconciliation of solar energy with agriculture, enhanced resilience against adverse weather conditions for farmers, and diversified income streams. Moreover, innovative solar panels can collect rainwater for irrigation, further bolstering farming operations’ resilience.
Agricultural PV finds applications across various agricultural sectors, including horticulture, viniculture, arable land, and pastures. Pilot projects across Europe demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating solar installations into agricultural landscapes.
Intersolar Europe 2024 will place special emphasis on agricultural PV, with a dedicated exhibit featuring leading companies in the field. Over 60 exhibitors will showcase agricultural PV products and solutions, while experts will delve deeper into the topic at sessions held during the Intersolar Forum and the Intersolar Europe Conference.
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