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Agrivoltaics, Opportunities for Hydrogen Generation, and Market Developments

Author

Listed:
  • Torsten Clemens

    (OMV Energy, Trabrennstraße 6-8, 1020 Vienna, Austria)

  • Andreas Lunzer

    (VTU Engineering GmbH, Guglgasse 15/4a/1. OG, 1110 Vienna, Austria)

  • Martin Hunyadi-Gall

    (VTU Engineering GmbH, Guglgasse 15/4a/1. OG, 1110 Vienna, Austria)

  • Pablo Gil

    (Plug and Play, 440 N, Wolfe Road, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, USA)

Abstract

To achieve deep decarbonization, renewable energy generation must be substantially increased. The technologies with the lowest levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) are land-based photovoltaics (PVs) and wind energy. Agri-PVs offer the potential for dual land use, combining energy generation with agricultural activities. However, the costs of agri-PVs are higher than those of ground-mounted PV. To enhance the competitiveness of agri-PV, we investigate the synergies between agri-PVs and hydrogen electrolysis through process simulation. Additionally, we analyse current technological developments in agri-PVs based on a market analysis of start-up companies. Our results indicate that the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) can be comparable for agri-PVs and ground-mounted PVs due to the somewhat smoother electricity generation for the same installed capacity. The market analysis reveals the emergence of a technology ecosystem that integrates agri-PVs with next-generation agricultural technologies, such as sensors, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) agents, along with localized electricity generation forecasting. The integrated agri-PV and hydrogen generation system has significant global scaling potential for renewable energy generation. Furthermore, it positively impacts local economies and energy resilience, may reduce water scarcity in agriculture, and leverages advancements in AI, robotics, PV, and hydrogen generation technologies.

Suggested Citation

  • Torsten Clemens & Andreas Lunzer & Martin Hunyadi-Gall & Pablo Gil, 2025. "Agrivoltaics, Opportunities for Hydrogen Generation, and Market Developments," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-26, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:4:p:1007-:d:1594879
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    References listed on IDEAS

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