Agrivoltaics is the combination of solar panels and agriculture. It’s a relatively new concept but has been gaining traction over the last 20 years with more and more research showing the benefits. Research in Australia has been limited but is steadily increasing.
Benefits of agrivoltaics include:
- Helping to protect crops and fruit from extreme weather, including frost and hail
- Increasing soil moisture retention by reducing evaporation
- Crops grown under solar panels act as evaporative coolers helping panels work more efficiently
If businesses invest in solar panels and batteries for their vineyards, orchards, veggie fields, or grazing paddocks this will significantly (perhaps entirely) reduce the need for fossil fuel energy in these areas. Tractors, pumps, frost fans and other equipment can all be electrified to reduce fuel costs and emissions and, once they are running from on-site solar, they will only need periodic maintenance.
Of course, there are costs associated with designing and installing systems like this, but also a myriad of savings associated with improved practices and agricultural efficiencies. If you are trying to reduce your agricultural emissions, or are just solar and battery curious, give Tom a call (0411 403 257) to discuss a feasibility study or yarn about your next project idea.
