The Agri4Power concept: A win-win situation for renewable energy generation and sustainable agriculture

Abstract

We investigate the combination of vertical mounted bifacial solar modules with crops production and preservation of biodiversity. The approach developed within the presented interdisciplinary research project is labelled as Agri4Power concept. This concept enables additional income to a farmer and at the same time supports expansion of renewable energy. Agri4power provides space and funding for wildflower strips promoting biodiversity in the agricultural landscape and create valuable habitats for animals and plants. An acceptance study with 500 participants shows that the concept is preferred to standard solar systems. Furthermore, we investigated the influence in the energy system implementing the vertical solar system in a national energy system model considering electricity, heat and transport sectors. Due to the complementary generation profile of the vertical system, electricity compared to conventional solar systems the demand for generation from flexible power plants is reduced.