Agri-PV as a Response to Climate and Energy Challenges
Agriculture faces significant challenges: climate change, water scarcity, and the need to expand renewable energy. A new study from the University of Hohenheim demonstrates how Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV) can address these issues by increasing crop yields during drought periods while simultaneously producing clean electricity. In this blog post, we summarize the study’s findings and explain why Agri-PV is a future-proof solution for farmers and the energy transition.
What is Agri-Photovoltaics?
Agri-PV combines agricultural land use with solar energy production. Solar panels are installed elevated or vertically above fields, allowing crops to be grown beneath or between them. This enables dual land use, reduces conflicts between food and energy production, and creates new income streams for farmers.
Why is this relevant? In times of recurring droughts and rising energy prices, Agri-PV offers a sustainable solution that supports both food security and the energy transition.
Results of the University of Hohenheim Study
Published in June 2025, the University of Hohenheim’s study examines the impact of Agri-PV on agricultural yields under various climatic conditions. Here are the key findings:
- Yield Increase During Drought: The shading provided by solar panels reduces water evaporation from the soil, which is particularly beneficial in dry years. Crops such as winter wheat, potatoes, and celery showed yield increases of 3–12% in the hot summer of 2018 compared to unshaded fields.
- Crop-Specific Differences: Berries, fruits, and fruit vegetables benefit from shading (up to 15% without yield losses), while crops like maize, field beans, and soybeans suffer under even slight shading.
- Microclimate Benefits: Agri-PV systems create a microclimate that maintains soil moisture and reduces heat stress for plants.
- Land Efficiency: The combined use of land increases land productivity by up to 186%, as demonstrated by tests at the Heggelbach pilot plant.
- Research Needs: Further research is required to identify optimal crops and system designs.
Link to the Study: University of Hohenheim, “How to reconcile renewable energy and agricultural production in a drying world”
Benefits of Agri-PV for Farmers and the Environment
- Additional Income: Farmers benefit from electricity production as an extra revenue source.
- Climate Protection: Agri-PV reduces CO₂ emissions through renewable energy generation.
- Adaptation to Climate Change: The technology protects crops from heatwaves and heavy rainfall.
Challenges and Future Perspectives
Despite the promising results, challenges remain:
- Costs: Agri-PV systems are more expensive than conventional ground-mounted PV.
- Crop Selection: Not all plants are suitable for shading.
- Research: Further studies are needed to understand long-term impacts.
The University of Hohenheim plans to expand its research with new test facilities in Stuttgart-Plieningen and Renningen.
Conclusion: Agri-PV as a Key to Sustainable Agriculture
The University of Hohenheim’s study shows that Agri-Photovoltaics drives the energy transition and makes agriculture more resilient to climate change. For farmers, Agri-PV offers an opportunity to farm sustainably and tap into new income sources.
Want to learn more about innovative energy solutions? Discover further insights here!
