Agri-PV

What Is Agri-PV?

Agri-PV (agrivoltaics) refers to the simultaneous use of agricultural land for food production and electricity generation with photovoltaics. The solar modules are installed so that farming can continue beneath or between them.

System Variants

Variant	Structure	Application
Elevated mounting	Modules at 4—6 m height	Arable farming, orchards
Vertical bifacial	Vertical modules in rows	Grassland, livestock
Interrow	Modules between crop rows	Specialty crops
Greenhouse-integrated	Semi-transparent modules	Vegetable growing

Advantages

• Dual use: Electricity and food from the same area
• Crop protection: Reduced sun exposure and evaporation during heat
• Additional income for farmers
• No land-use competition with ground-mounted PV
• Preservation of agricultural subsidies (under certain conditions)

Legal Framework

Since the EEG 2023, Agri-PV is promoted as a “special solar installation” with an increased feed-in tariff. The land must remain at least 85% usable for agriculture (DIN SPEC 91434).

Research Findings

Studies by Fraunhofer ISE show that the overall utilisation efficiency (Land Equivalent Ratio) of Agri-PV can be 60—70% higher than separate use.

Practical Tip

Agri-PV is particularly attractive for farmers with large areas and high self-consumption (e.g. irrigation, cooling). The technology is still in its early stages in Germany but is specifically promoted through the EEG.