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The spatial socio-technical potential of agrivoltaics in Germany

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  • C, Rösch
  • E, Fakharizadehshirazi

Abstract

Germany's goal of transitioning to renewable energy by 2045 presents a challenge of increased land-use competition. Agrivoltaics is a promising solution to this dilemma and benefits resilient food production and farmers' income. This study, for the first time, assesses the spatial land-use potential of agrivoltaics in Germany with a socio-technical Geographic Information System based on land use restrictions and suitability criteria. The study investigates small-scale agrivoltaics over suitable crops to enable farmers to benefit from the technology by their integration into high-value agricultural activities. The results show that agrivoltaics over permanent, moderate shade-tolerant and full shade-tolerant crops can achieve 88 % of Germany's PV energy target by 2030. About half of the 0.74 % of the German territory used for these crops has good soil quality, with a Soil Quality Rating over 60. From the small-sized permanent crop area (<2.5 ha) around 11 % is well suited due to favourable solar irradiation, orientation and slope. Most of this potential (79 %) is concentrated in the southern regions of Germany. The results indicate that agrivoltaics over permanent, moderate shade-tolerant and full shade-tolerant crops can contribute to resilient food production in small-scale farm businesses and to the political goal to increase land-based solar energy production. More financial support and further research are needed to identify the obstacles, and better understand stakeholders' perspectives on agrivoltaics and its integration into the landscape.

Suggested Citation

  • C, Rösch & E, Fakharizadehshirazi, 2024. "The spatial socio-technical potential of agrivoltaics in Germany," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 202(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:202:y:2024:i:c:s1364032124004325
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2024.114706
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