The project developers Goldbeck Solar and Imwind are jointly constructing a solar park in Gaweinstal, Lower Austria. The plant will have an output of five megawatts. The electricity will be purchased in full by the drugstore chain DM. The three partners have concluded a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for this purpose. In this way, Goldbeck Solar and Imwind can refinance the plant and DM has capped its energy costs for the agreed supply period.
Spotlight Solar: Meet farmers at Energy Decental
PPA concluded
DM can cover the electricity requirements of around 70 shops in Austria with the system. This is one sixth of the total electricity requirements of DM shops in the Alpine republic. This works all the better because Goldbeck and Imwind will mount the solar modules from Trina on 8,200 trackers that follow the path of the sun. This results in an even distribution of power generation throughout the day - in contrast to the fixed installation of the modules, where the system generates little power in the morning and evening, but has a huge yield peak at midday.
By permanently realigning the modules according to the position of the sun, the system also achieves up to 20 per cent more yield compared to a fixed installation. However, the trackers have even more advantages. According to the project partners, such systems have the potential to improve the microclimate in the area and reduce water evaporation.
See also: Axpo starts construction of 20 MW solar park in northern Italy
Vertical modules
In addition, the modules can be set up almost vertically in cultivation mode. This makes it possible to continue using the area almost entirely for agricultural purposes. This is why the project was specifically geared towards the agri-PV farmer and coordinated with the farmer, who continues to use the area for roughage cultivation and livestock farming. This saves the farmer having to buy in feed for his animals from the Waldviertel.
Economic and ecological benefits
In this way, the project also saves further CO2, as the feed does not have to be transported from the Waldviertel to Gaweinstal. "With the Agri-PV Park in Gaweinstal, we are sending a strong signal for the combination of sustainable energy generation and agricultural use," emphasises Tobias Schüssler, who is responsible for operations at Goldbeck Solar. "This project shows how innovative technologies can offer economic and ecological benefits at the same time."
Also interesting: Solar plant in Austria protects berries and involves citizens
Realising further projects
For the company, the plant in Gaweinstal is another important milestone not only on the Austrian market, but also in its cooperation with Imwind in the development of agri-PV projects. The tracker technology reveals its universal advantages and sustainable effects.
Solar offensive at EnergyDecentral
You can discuss these and other projects with interested farmers directly at this year's EnergyDecentral. As part of the trade fair's solar offensive on decentralised energy supply for farms, there will be the opportunity to develop ideas and specific projects together with farmers at advisory tables. All information about the solar campaign is available here. (su/mfo)
