Practical Guide to Agrivoltaics in Connecticut
Agrivoltaics, also known as Agrophotovoltaics or APV, is a system that involves the co-location of agricultural production and solar energy generation on the same piece of land. The idea is to use the same space for both purposes, rather than having separate plots for solar panels and agriculture. Connecticut, like many other states, is exploring the potential benefits of Agrivoltaics.
There are several research projects and pilot programs related to Agrivoltaics currently underway in Connecticut. For example, the University of Connecticut's Department of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources has partnered with solar developer Ameresco to study the potential for Agrivoltaics at the university's research farm. They have installed a solar array that is elevated above a field of crops, allowing both solar energy generation and agriculture to take place simultaneously.
AI-based agrivoltaics systems are designed to optimize the performance of the raised solar system. One of its key features is the ability to control the tilt angle of solar panels based on real-time data and machine learning algorithms.
By analyzing data such as weather conditions, solar radiation, and crop growth, the model can determine the optimal tilt angle for the solar panels. This allows for maximum energy production while minimizing shading on the crops.
Furthermore, these systems can adapt to changing conditions in real-time, adjusting the tilt angle of the panels to optimize energy production throughout the day. This ensures that the system is always operating at peak efficiency, even as conditions change.
The benefits of Agrivoltaics in Connecticut are numerous. It has the potential to increase land use efficiency, allowing for more renewable energy production and agricultural production on the same piece of land. This approach can also provide additional income streams for farmers, who can lease their land for solar panel installations. Furthermore, Agrivoltaics can also provide shade and reduce water usage for crops, potentially improving their growth and yield.
In summary, Agrivoltaics is an exciting area of research and development in Connecticut, and it has the potential to offer significant benefits for both renewable energy generation and agriculture.
At NuWatt Energy, we specialize in the design, installation, and maintenance of Agrivoltaic systems. We work with farmers and agricultural cooperatives across Connecticut to provide tailored sustainable energy solutions that meet their specific needs and requirements.
Contact us today to learn more about how Agrivoltaics can benefit your farm in Connecticut.
