TSE, a French agrivoltaics specialist, has installed a 2.9 MW agrivoltaic power plant in Brouchy, Hauts-de-France. The plant is equipped with an irrigation system that uses sensors placed on the canopy to optimize water usage, enabling almost 30% water savings on large crops. The solar panels are positioned at a height of 5 meters and are equipped with trackers that can rotate them from east to west, generating partial and rotating shading to mitigate thermal and water stress. Agronomic trials will be conducted by France's National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment on various crops including soybeans, wheat, and rapeseed over nine years.
This innovative approach to farming known as agrivoltaics farming or “solar sharing” is becoming increasingly popular because it allows for efficient use of land by combining agriculture and solar power generation. It can provide multiple benefits such as reducing water consumption, improving crop yields, providing shade to crops, and generating renewable energy.
The dual land usage approach has the potential to become a significant source of renewable energy and food production, especially in areas where land is scarce or food security is a concern. Additionally, by integrating solar power generation into existing farms, farmers can diversify their income streams and greatly reduce their energy costs.
PV Ground Mounting Systems are often used in combination with agrivoltaics plant installations. These systems are designed to effectively secure solar panels in place using reliable and durable mounting solutions. They ensure the panels are angled correctly for maximum sunlight exposure, increasing the efficiency of the solar energy generated. PV Ground Mounting Systems can be customized to various terrains, allowing for optimized energy production.
Overall, the TSE agrivoltaic power plant serves as an example of how efficient water management, crop yields, and renewable energy can be achieved through the integration of solar power generation and agriculture. It is a promising option for sustainable and climate-resilient food production in the future.
