The conflict between using land for sustainable energy production versus traditional agricultural practices has become a pressing issue in modern society. The introduction of solar panels on farmland, such as in the case of the Solé family in Alcarras de Carla Simón, highlights the need for innovative solutions to ensure a balance between energy production and food cultivation. At the University of Cordoba, the TEP215-Physics for Renewable Energies research group has developed a methodology to define the cultivable space between two-axis photovoltaic modules, paving the way for the integration of agrivoltaics as a sustainable land use option.
Agrivoltaics, which involves the shared use of land for agricultural and photovoltaic production, offers a potential solution to the land use conflict. By strategically placing crops between solar collectors without interfering with their movement or reducing photovoltaic production, agrivoltaic systems can maximize the efficiency of both energy and food production. The research conducted by the University of Cordoba team aims to promote the adoption of agrivoltaics by refining existing photovoltaic installations to accommodate agricultural crops.
Optimizing Crop Placement
The methodology developed by the research group utilizes theoretical simulations of solar astronomy and spatial geometry to determine the optimal placement of crops within existing photovoltaic plants. By considering factors such as the movement of two-axis solar panels and the prevention of shadows through backtracking techniques, the model identifies cultivable areas that can support crop growth without compromising energy generation. The team’s findings indicate that a significant portion of land between panels is suitable for cultivating crops less than 1.4 meters in height, making agrivoltaic production feasible for a variety of agricultural activities.
The integration of agrivoltaics into existing large photovoltaic plants represents a significant advancement in promoting sustainable land use practices. By combining agricultural and energy production in a mutually beneficial relationship, agrivoltaic systems offer a dual solution to increasing food security and renewable energy generation. Furthermore, the shading provided by solar panels can benefit crops by maintaining soil moisture and protecting them from extreme climates, enhancing overall agricultural productivity.
As agrivoltaics gain traction as a viable land use option, the establishment of legislation and field trials with different crop types will be crucial in driving widespread adoption. By further refining and adjusting parameters in the developed model, researchers can assess the potential for transitioning existing photovoltaic installations to agrivoltaic systems. This innovative approach not only enhances the sustainability of energy production but also contributes to climate change mitigation efforts, highlighting the importance of integrating agriculture and renewable energy for a more sustainable future.
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