Agrisolar, referring to the integration of solar photovoltaic projects within an agricultural activity, includes the deployment of PV on the roof of agricultural buildings, PV integrated into irrigation systems, and agrivoltaics.
The map highlights a diverse range of technologies, including ground-mounted PV, interrow PV, dynamic PV, overhead PV, farm rooftop PV, and solar PV greenhouses, tailored to accommodate various agricultural activities.
Eva Vandest, Group Head of Public Affairs, Global Agrisolar expert at Amarenco and Chair of SolarPower Europe’s Land Use and Permitting Workstream, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating: "With this digital map providing an overview of Agri-PV installations across Europe, we aim to illustrate the current development of this market and enable tracking of its progress. It's evident that various types of installations have been built in accordance with SolarPower Europe guidelines, fostering a wide array of solutions to address the diverse needs of the agricultural sector."
Ongoing project – providing detailed insights into agrisolar projects
Lina Dubina, Policy Advisor on Sustainability at SolarPower Europe said: "This map unveils how agrisolar and farming can go hand in hand to support a multitude of crops such as vines, fruit plants, market gardening, wheat, barley, and more. Agri-solar can also integrate with livestock farming practices, including sheep grazing, cows, hens, and beekeeping."
Also interesting: Agrosolar Europe and Fibr have developed an agri-PV system with natural materials
Dubina continued: "Many agrisolar projects featured on the map incorporate biodiversity initiatives aimed at preserving and enhancing ecosystems. These initiatives include tracking wildflowers as well as various animal species, further underscoring the environmental benefits of agrisolar integration."
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The map provides a comprehensive overview of projects across Switzerland, France (including outer regions), Netherlands, Lithuania, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, and the UK, serving as a valuable resource for stakeholders interested in the intersection of solar energy and agriculture. The project will be ongoing, with the aim of providing the most detailed insight into agrisolar projects in Europe to solar developers, farmers, researchers and policymakers. (hcn)
