PV tracker supports solar power and crop co-existence

PV tracker supports solar power and crop co-existence

Approximately 2.8 GW of solar and crop dual-use installations exist globally, with most of the capacity located in China, Japan, South Korea and Europe.” - DOE Agrivoltaics Market Research Study “European societies need all the tools and viable solutions to increase the share of clean energy production, without causing additional environmental impact,” said Giuseppe Demofonti, Senior Consultant at Valmont. Meanwhile, the agricultural sector needs to retain valuable land for crop production. To support a mutually beneficial relationship between photovoltaics (PV) and agriculture, Valmont in 2023 joined the SYMBIOSYST project. The interdisciplinary consortium aims to identify cost-effective solutions that increase PV competitiveness, minimize environmental impact, and support crop production—all while fostering acceptance and interest for agri-PV solutions. As part of our ongoing mission to conserve resources and improve life, Valmont already has a track record of integrating agricultural activity and solar energy production from PV panels. Taking part in SYMBIOSYST was a “remarkable opportunity” to highlight the smart way we do it, Demofonti said. For the Italian demo of the project, Valmont transitioned an Italian fruit farm to utilize solar energy with PV modules. Equipping four tracker rows with Valmont Solar's Convert Control System allows the capability for continuous monitoring of parameters such as humidity, soil irradiance, and air/soil temperature to support production optimization, while reaching a nominal peak power of about 20KWp. A potential of the technology is that the trackers move throughout the day and can optimize sunlight or shade for the crops below, which may reduce evaporation and conserve water while helping what’s planted to thrive. Valmont is an industry leader in advancing agricultural productivity and creating vital infrastructure that conserves resources and improves everyday life. The SYMBIOSYST project helps demonstrate the role our innovative technologies can play in creating a better tomorrow.