Optimizing fertilizer use for sustainable crops with Agrivoltaics in Mediterranean climates

Abstract

Agrivoltaics (AV), a fast-growing technology integrating photovoltaic panels with agriculture, can offer the dual benefit of clean energy and crop yield gains, especially in the Mediterranean basin. However, its interaction with fertilizers -key for crops productivity but major contributors to environmental degradation- remains unexplored. This study applies a regional AV model over the Iberian Peninsula (1991–2020) using the ORCHIDEE land surface model to assess AV under varying synthetic fertilizers scenarios. We examine its effects on crop productivity, nitrogen and water use efficiency, and fertilizer-induced greenhouse gas emissions. Results show that AV can enhance productivity and reduce environmental costs, particularly in water-scarce conditions. However, trade-offs arise at critical fertilizer levels varying by crop type and climate. A region-specific strategy that considers climate, crop responses, and environmental impacts is essential to optimize AV sustainability potential.