The Role of Solar in Agrivoltaics: Farming with Panels
As the world looks for smarter and more sustainable ways to meet energy demands, agrivoltaics — the innovative fusion of agriculture and solar energy — is emerging as a game-changing solution. By allowing crops and solar panels to share the same land, farmers can increase productivity, diversify income streams, and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
What Is Agrivoltaics?
Agrivoltaics (also known as agrophotovoltaics) is the practice of installing solar panels above or alongside crops. Rather than competing for land, solar and agriculture work together — capturing the sun’s energy for electricity while supporting crop growth below. This smart land-sharing concept helps farmers make the most of their available space, especially in areas where agricultural land is limited or climate conditions are harsh.
How Does It Work?
Solar panels in agrivoltaic systems are elevated or spaced strategically to allow sufficient sunlight and airflow for the crops underneath. Some systems even use dual-axis tracking, allowing the panels to follow the sun while adjusting their angle to optimise light for both energy generation and plant photosynthesis.
The setup can also include irrigation systems and sensors to monitor soil moisture, crop health, and energy output — forming part of a larger “smart farm” ecosystem.
Benefits for Farmers and the Environment
1. Dual Income Streams
Farmers can generate electricity and feed crops from the same land. Selling excess energy back to the grid or using it to power irrigation, refrigeration, and equipment can reduce operational costs.
2. Crop Protection and Efficiency
The shade provided by solar panels helps protect sensitive crops from extreme heat, wind, and drought. This can reduce water evaporation and lower the need for irrigation — particularly beneficial in dry regions.
3. Boosting Biodiversity
Some agrivoltaic projects integrate pollinator-friendly plants or livestock grazing between panel rows, creating a more diverse and sustainable ecosystem.
4. Reduced Land Use Pressure
By combining land for food and energy, agrivoltaics helps alleviate the growing tension between agricultural needs and renewable energy development.
Where Is Agrivoltaics Being Used?
Countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States are already exploring agrivoltaic systems with success. In Australia, where sunlight is abundant and agricultural land is vast, agrivoltaics holds immense potential to support both clean energy goals and rural economies.
Pilot projects are showing promising results — from vineyards and vegetable farms to livestock pastures — each adapted to local crops, climates, and farming styles.
The Future of Solar-Powered Farming
As technology advances and the cost of solar continues to fall, agrivoltaics is likely to become more widespread. Government incentives, research support, and partnerships with energy providers can help accelerate adoption across farming communities.
For landowners and farmers seeking a resilient, sustainable path forward, agrivoltaics offers a win–win: grow crops, generate clean energy, and contribute to the global shift towards net-zero emissions.
Ready to explore how solar can power your farm and your future? Learn more about integrated energy solutions that support both agricultural productivity and sustainability.
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Damien Frearson
