The Complete Guide to Planning Your First Agrivoltaic Installation

Agrivoltaics, the practice of combining agriculture with solar power generation, is gaining traction as a sustainable solution for farmers. With benefits like reduced water usage, added crop protection, and income from solar energy, agrivoltaics is transforming how farmers think about land use. If you’re considering your first agrivoltaic installation, this guide will take you through every step, from planning and design to financing and maintenance.

1. Understanding Agrivoltaics: How It Works

What Is Agrivoltaics?

Agrivoltaics involves installing solar panels on farmland to create a dual-use area where crops and energy production coexist. Panels are raised or adjusted to allow crops to receive the necessary sunlight while providing shade that can reduce water evaporation and protect plants from extreme weather.

Benefits of Agrivoltaics

• Water Conservation: Panels provide shade, which reduces soil temperature and water loss.
• Improved Crop Yields: Certain crops benefit from partial shading, leading to better growth and yield in hot climates.
• Income Diversification: Solar energy offers farmers a steady income stream, offsetting the impacts of volatile crop prices.
• Climate Resilience: By reducing soil erosion and protecting crops, agrivoltaics helps farms adapt to extreme weather and climate variability.

2. Choosing the Right Location

Evaluating Sunlight and Shade Requirements

To plan a successful agrivoltaic installation, start by evaluating your farm’s sunlight needs. Different crops have unique sunlight and shade requirements, so you’ll want to prioritize areas where partial shade could benefit crop growth.

Soil Suitability and Crop Selection

Agrivoltaics works best on land with crops suited for partial sunlight. Leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers, and certain herbs often thrive in shaded environments, while crops needing full sunlight, like corn, may be less suitable.

Proximity to Energy Infrastructure

Locate your installation close to existing energy infrastructure. Connecting to the power grid can save on installation costs and make it easier to sell excess electricity back to local utility companies.

3. Designing the Agrivoltaic System

Panel Layout and Height

One key to agrivoltaic success is designing a layout that optimizes sunlight distribution. Agrivoltaic systems typically use:

• Vertical Mounts: Ideal for regions with high solar energy potential, vertical setups leave space between rows for machinery and crop growth.
• Raised Platforms: Taller installations allow farm machinery to pass beneath and accommodate taller crop types.
• Fixed-Tilt vs. Adjustable-Tilt Panels: Adjustable panels allow for more dynamic sunlight control, while fixed-tilt panels may be more affordable for initial installations.

Row Spacing and Orientation

Spacing and orientation will impact sunlight distribution, crop growth, and energy production. Most systems are oriented to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day, while the spacing between panel rows should allow sufficient light for crops.

Equipment Compatibility

If you rely on heavy machinery, ensure there’s enough clearance between panel rows. Some agrivoltaic systems integrate retractable or rotatable panels to provide extra space when needed.

4. Navigating Permits and Regulations

Zoning and Land Use Permits

Since agrivoltaics involves both farming and energy production, it may fall under specific zoning regulations. Research local zoning laws and work with local authorities to secure necessary permits.

Utility Company Agreements

Most agrivoltaic installations connect to the grid, so you’ll need agreements with utility companies. These agreements outline how much energy you can sell back to the grid and may involve contracts for long-term energy sales.

Environmental and Agricultural Compliance

Ensure compliance with any environmental regulations, particularly if you’re installing in ecologically sensitive areas. Some regions also have agricultural zoning restrictions that may affect your design choices.

5. Securing Financing and Funding Options

Upfront Costs and Investment Estimates

Agrivoltaic installations require an initial investment for solar panels, mounting structures, and installation labor. While costs vary by project, the average expense ranges between $1,500 and $2,500 per kilowatt for smaller systems.

Federal and State Incentives

In the U.S., the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a significant tax credit on solar installations, which can help offset costs. Additionally, many states provide grants, tax incentives, or loan programs to support renewable energy projects on farms.

Financing Options

• Green Loans: Specialized loans from agricultural or green energy banks.
• Grants: USDA’s REAP Program (Rural Energy for America Program) offers grants for solar installations on farms.
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): PPAs allow you to install solar panels with little to no upfront cost by contracting with a solar developer who retains ownership of the panels.

6. Installation and Setup

Hiring a Professional Installer

Agrivoltaic installations require expertise in both agricultural and solar technology. Hiring a professional agrivoltaic installer can ensure optimal setup and prevent costly errors. Look for companies with experience in both solar energy and farm installations.

Preparing the Land

Before installation, clear the area of rocks, trees, or other obstacles. In some cases, soil preparation may also be necessary to ensure effective crop growth around the solar infrastructure.

System Testing and Initial Setup

After installation, conduct system tests to confirm optimal performance. These tests check the energy output, panel alignment, and shading patterns to ensure crops receive adequate light.

7. Crop Selection and Planting

Identifying Ideal Crops for Your Climate and System

Crops with shallow roots and tolerance for partial shade often work best under solar panels. Here are some popular choices:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, lettuce, and kale thrive in the shade, especially in warmer climates.
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, and beets can grow well under solar panels.
• Herbs and Medicinal Plants: Parsley, basil, and chamomile adapt to partial shading and are popular for smaller agrivoltaic setups.

Rotational Planting Strategies

Agrivoltaic systems also allow for rotational planting, which helps maintain soil health and prevent nutrient depletion. Consider rotating different crop types within your system to maximize yield.

8. Maintenance and Monitoring

Panel Cleaning and Maintenance

Solar panels require occasional cleaning to maximize energy production, especially in dusty or dry environments. Most installations need panel cleaning about once every six months, depending on weather conditions and local climate.

Monitoring Crop Health and Growth

Agrivoltaic installations create unique microclimates that may impact plant growth, soil health, and pest activity. Regularly monitor crop health and make adjustments to irrigation, shading, or panel height as needed.

Energy Output Monitoring

Use energy output monitoring software to track the electricity generated by your system. Many systems offer online portals or apps to help you gauge performance, set alerts, and identify maintenance needs early.

9. Evaluating Success and Making Adjustments

Analyzing Financial Returns

Agrivoltaic success is both a matter of crop yield and energy production. Track your energy savings and income from electricity sales to calculate your return on investment. Additionally, monitor water savings and productivity gains from improved crop health.

Gathering Data for Continuous Improvement

Many agrivoltaic farmers partner with universities or agricultural research organizations to monitor system performance and make improvements. Use available data to optimize crop choices, panel orientation, and irrigation systems to maximize productivity.

10. Scaling Up: Planning for Expansion

Once your initial system proves successful, consider expanding to other areas of your farm. Whether by adding more panels or experimenting with new crop types, scaling up can help you increase both agricultural yield and energy production.

Future-Proofing Your Agrivoltaic System

Stay informed about advances in agrivoltaic technology, from improved panel designs to enhanced crop-shading techniques. By keeping your system adaptable, you can ensure it remains effective for years to come.

Agrivoltaics represents a promising step forward for sustainable farming. By carefully planning and implementing a well-designed system, you can transform your farm into a source of both food and renewable energy. With the potential to conserve resources, increase income, and improve crop resilience, agrivoltaics is a worthwhile investment for any farmer ready to embrace the future of agriculture.