Agri-PV system above apple trees in Deutenkofen
About this good practice
The new Agri-PV system in Lehr- und Beispielsbetrieb für Obstbau in Deutenkofen, in Lower Bavaria, addresses not only the challenges posed by climate change in fruit cultivation, particularly increasing UV radiation and extreme weather conditions but also offer renewable energy solution for self-operation.
Funded by Lower Bavarian District, the APV system operates within an educational and demonstration farm for fruit cultivation in Lower Bavaria. The aim is to generate clean, renewable energy while simultaneously protecting apple and pear trees from harsh climatic factors, such as strong sunlight and hail. In 2024, the facility began operation and is equipped with 396 semi-transparent solar modules, each 3.9 meters high, with a possible total output of 956 kWp/ha. Two variants of the solar modules, with light transmissions of 50% and 40%, are being tested to determine the optimal conditions for the trees' growth. The system extends over a length of 80 meters and a width of around 6 meters.
The main beneficiaries are the District of Lower Bavaria, which oversees and funds the project, and local farmers who are direct beneficiaries of increased fruit yield and protection.
Resources needed
The total construction cost for the Agri-PV facility is 250,000€. It is supported by the Lower Bavaria district government. The payback time is expected to be around 14 years. The entire construction, including planning, administrative procedures, commissioning, and building, took 9 months.
Evidence of success
This Agri-PV practice succeeds by generating renewable energy while protecting fruit crops. The farm reuses energy for operations like cooling apples, with surplus fed into the grid. It also showcases a business model, raises awareness, boosts local engagement, and supports farmers. Participating in the Bavarian Energy Days (29.9.2024), 60 attendees showed strong interest in the system. Stakeholders, including farmers, show strong interest in replicable practices for crop resilience.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice presents a valuable learning opportunity for other regions facing similar agricultural challenges. By showcasing a practical application of dual land use that incorporates renewable energy generation and climate adaptability, this practice serves as a model for agricultural innovation.
Key success factors for potential transfer include the comprehensive testing approach, where varying light transmission levels are used to evaluate their impact on specific fruit varieties. Additionally, the initiative highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, which can be adapted by other regions looking to enhance agricultural resilience and renewable energy integration. The demonstration event can serve as a good tool for engaging citizens and farmers in local regions.
The experience gained from implementing this facility can inform similar projects across Europe, particularly in NUTS 2 regions where fruit cultivation is economically significant.
Further information
Good practice owner
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