What is Agrivoltaics?

Agrivoltaics, also known as Agrophotovoltaics or APV, is the integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems on agricultural land. This approach combines food production with electricity generation in a single land use, which can help to increase land use efficiency and income for farmers. Agrivoltaic systems can be integrated with different types of crops, such as arable crops, orchards, and vineyards, and can be installed on different types of land, such as on flat or hilly terrain, on open fields, or on greenhouses.

What are the Benefits of Agrivoltaics?

Agrivoltaic energy has many benefits for farmers and those in the agricultural industry.

First and foremost, agrivoltaics protects crops against heat and inclement weather, improving crop yields for farmers. Water conservation can be improved through the shading of PV panels to reduce evaporation. Other benefits include reduced electric bills and increased income from solar electricity generation. Through agrivoltaics, farmers report healthier and more sustainable crops and farms.

Challenges of Implementing Agrivoltaics

The main challenges for Agrivoltaics are the relatively high costs of installation, the need for specialized knowledge and expertise, and the need for adequate regulations and policies. However, with the right current knowledge of local and federal incentives and grants, this hurdle can be overcome. Also, as technology and installation costs continue to decrease and more research is conducted, Agrivoltaics may become a more viable and widespread solution for sustainable energy generation and food production.

What’s the cost of Agrivoltaics Solar Systems?

The cost of implementing Agrivoltaics is typically higher than conventional ground-mounted solar systems and can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size and type of the PV system, the type of crop being grown, the location, and the specific installation requirements. However, the delivered cost of the system can drop dramatically due to with the abundance of federal and local incentives and grants from the USDA and other entities. These incentives and rebates are both designed to ensure that farmers can benefit from solar energy while protecting the crops from the elements and ensuring more efficient use of water resources.

Installing an agrivoltaic system typically involves costs for the PV panels and other equipment, installation, and any necessary permitting and interconnection fees. Also, as it is a new technology, the cost of installation may be higher than traditional PV systems.

The benefits of agrivoltaics, such as improved crop yields, reduced electricity costs for farmers, and increased income from electricity generation, besides the available grants available to farmers, can offset the initial costs.

How Can NuWatt Energy Help with your Agrivoltaics Project?

NuWatt Energy specializes in the design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy systems. NuWatt has also partnered with Sun’Agri, a European company that is specialized in providing technical programming and expertise for agricultural use. NuWatt already has an established relationship with financial entities of particular interest in Agrivoltaics. We focus on providing solutions for farmers, vine growers, and other agricultural professionals who want to reduce their energy costs and their carbon footprint.

What Services Does NuWatt Offer Farmers Interested in Agrivoltaics?

NuWatt Energy offers bespoke agrivoltaic systems. When you work with NuWatt, you are choosing to partner with a company committed to ensuring the most efficient system for you.

NuWatt’s team will work to complete a study of the potential of the site, modeling a design for the installation. Once you’ve approved. we’ll supply and install your agrivoltaics system, connecting it to the grid. Our team will train you on the use and maintenance of the system so that you have all the tools needed for your success. 

NuWatt works with farmers and agricultural cooperatives across the US to provide sustainable energy solutions that are tailored to their specific needs and requirements.