Our energy solutions for arboriculture and viticulture
BayWa r.e. will support you in developing an agrivoltaic project tailored to your needs and your fruit or wine production.
BayWa r.e. is an expert in the development of renewable energy projects and has always worked with the agricultural sector. Are you an arboriculturist, winegrower or vegetable grower? Our semi-transparent agrivoltaic canopy technology is a solution for mitigating climate change and protecting your crops while preserving yields.
Our semi-transparent fixed agrivoltaic shadow solutions
An agrivoltaic canopy is a fixed, raised structure to which photovoltaic modules are attached. As they are higher than conventional ground panels, crops can be grown beneath them. These canopies cover a wide range of crops, from raspberries and redcurrants to pears, cherries, apples, plums, etc. This Agri-PV solution can also be installed over vines.
The agrivoltaic canopy can be completely adapted to the specific needs of your crops:
The degree of transparency of the panels ranges from 0% to 43% depending on the crop's light requirements.
Canopy orientation according to the plot of land.
The height and spacing of the structures vary by project, so the mechanisation can be adapted to each farm.
To ensure that your agrivoltaic project is of the highest possible quality and optimised for your yields, we work closely with agricultural institutions. Agronomic monitoring is carried out on the agrivoltaic installation by independent consultancies or other companies, with a control area without panels maintained on one plot.
BayWa r.e. handles all development stages of an Agri-PV project, from its design to its construction and operation. We will work with you every step of the way to deliver a turnkey project.
The benefits of the semi-transparent agrivoltaic canopy
Protection of crops from weather hazards (hail, late frost, strong winds, scorching).
Reduction and optimisation of water consumption by reducing evapotranspiration
Production of low-carbon renewable energy.
Additional benefits
Long-term yield security with a solution adapted to climate change.
Improved comfort for farm workers through shade and fresh air.
Additional income for farmers and protection for agricultural land.
A sustainable alternative to plastic nets and tarpaulins.
Possibility of adding anti-hail nets and drip irrigation systems.
Our work in Agri-PV
After an initial pilot project built in 2016, BayWa r.e. currently has a European portfolio of 19 MWp in agrivoltaic projects, including fruit canopies, across 15 sites: 10 in the Netherlands, 2 in Austria and 3 in Germany. In France, our first Agri-PV installation with semi-transparent canopies, Brumath, was built in Alsace in 2023.
BayWa r.e. has built an 8.7 MWp, 9 ha site using semi-transparent canopies over raspberry bushes in Meierijstad, Holland. It is Europe's largest installation with an agrivoltaic canopy over fruit production.
Solar panels make it possible to protect crops in a more sustainable way.
The plastic tubes we used to use had to be removed every year and were thrown away every 6 years.
Our family farm has been producing red fruit in Alsace since 1978.
At our sites, we have seen the effects of climate change, and this is the main reason why we have chosen to install agrivoltaic canopies on our fruit. This method of agrivoltaics promises to provide favourable conditions for our crops and good working conditions.
Last year, on the hottest day, it was 10 degrees cooler under the solar panels.
On the wettest day, the plants stayed dry. It's a solution I really believe in.
Criteria for a semi-transparent agrivoltaic shade project
This technology is dedicated to arboriculture and viticulture
Minimum 5 hectares required
Maximum panel height of 4 metres (bottom of panel)
Maximum 8% slope and relief
Do you have an Agri-PV project or want to know the potential of your plot?
Let's cultivate solar energy together!
Related topics
Agri-PV
With Agri-PV, your land does two crucial jobs at the same time: firstly, maintaining its original agricultural purpose and secondly, generating clean power.
Do you grow crops or vegetables?
Our inter-row Agri-PV tracker technology enhance the value of your arable farms.
Do you have a livestock business?
For grazing plots, BayWa r.e. offers structures equipped with fixed or mobile panels (trackers) positioned horizontally.
