The Intersection of Agricultural Production and Solar Energy: The Case for Agrivoltaics

The University of Cordoba’s TEP215-Physics for Renewable Energies research group has developed a groundbreaking methodology aimed at promoting the conversion of traditional agricultural spaces into agrivoltaic production areas. The conflict between sustainable energy production and agricultural land use has been a topic of cultural and academic debate, with Agrivoltaics emerging as a possible solution to this dilemma.

The team at the University of Cordoba focused on the cultivation space between two-axis photovoltaic modules, specifically designed to maximize energy production by following the sun’s movement throughout the day. By developing a model that identifies areas suitable for cultivation without interfering with the movement of solar panels, the researchers have laid the groundwork for integrating agricultural production into existing photovoltaic facilities.

The Model and Its Applications

The model developed by the research group utilizes a theoretical simulation of solar astronomy and the spatial geometry of photovoltaic plants to determine cultivable areas between solar collectors. By taking into account backtracking, a methodology that prevents shadow casting between panels, the researchers were able to demonstrate that 74% of the land between panels at the “El Molino” plant in Cordoba is cultivable by crops less than 1.4 meters high. This model can be applied to other existing plants to assess the feasibility of transitioning to agrivoltaic production.

Agrivoltaics offer a win-win solution for both energy production and agricultural sustainability. By combining photovoltaic and agricultural production, farmers can benefit from the shading provided by solar panels, which can help maintain soil moisture in extreme climates. This integrated approach not only improves the sustainability of existing photovoltaic plants but also contributes to the fight against climate change.

As the researchers at the University of Cordoba point out, the next steps in promoting agrivoltaic land use include the establishment of legislation and field trials with different types of crops. By refining and adjusting parameters, the model developed by the research group can pave the way for a more sustainable and productive use of land that balances the needs of both agricultural and energy production sectors.

The development of agrivoltaics represents a significant advancement in addressing the challenges of land use conflict between agriculture and renewable energy production. By harnessing the potential of integrating crops with solar panels, we can create a more sustainable and profitable model for land utilization that benefits both the environment and the economy.