Agrivoltaics
The Co-Location of Farming and Photovoltaics
Farming isn’t getting easier
Modern agriculture is under tremendous pressure. A variety of impacts are making farming increasingly difficult:
Droughts and dwindling water resources
Rising operational costs
Land-use pressures
Higher temperatures and extreme weather
Soil erosion
Rising energy & irrigation pumping costs
These challenges make it increasingly important to rethink how we use our land.
Agrivoltaics – Building resilience by integrating solar energy production into farming
Agrivoltaics combines agriculture with solar energy production. Instead of dedicating land to one use or the other, farms can produce crops or support livestock while generating renewable electricity.
When designed appropriately, agrivoltaic systems can help:
Generate an additional source of farm income or reduce electricity costs
Reduce heat stress for crops and livestock
Lower irrigation needs through beneficial shading
Provide wind protection
Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
Why vertical solar?
Our vertical solar racking system integrates bifacial panels – panels that generate electricity from both sides. Installed upright like a fence, often in the east- to west-facing orientation, their small footprint is conducive to dual-land use. Vertical systems offer several advantages including:
Generate an additional source of farm income or reduce electricity costs
Reduce heat stress for crops and livestock
Lower irrigation needs through beneficial shading
Provide wind protection
Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
Ready to see how Sunzaun can support your farm? Get in touch with us today!
Agrivoltaic
Applications
Crop Farming
Crops
Vertical solar can be incorporated into crop production to create more resilient growing environments. Wind reduction and localized shading can help reduce heat stress and conserve soil moisture for certain crops.
Sunzaun systems are customizable and can be ordered in a range of heights to accommodate taller crops or evolving farm operations.
Crop research is underway at several land-grant universities — and we’re proud to be contributing to the innovation! Check Sunzaun’s involvement with crop research at:
Pasture & Grazing