Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Assessing Orchard Agrivoltaics

Integrating solar panels into existing agricultural systems is a concept known as agrivoltaics. Effective implementation of agrivoltaics requires knowledge of disciplines spanning engineering, horticulture, and economics. Research shows that this technology has potential to be beneficial to growers for both crop productivity and farm profitability through energy production. However, financial restrictions make it difficult to implement. Working with Dr. Dana Hoag and graduate student, Sam Bryan, we are assessing orchardists’ opinions on agrivoltaics, and what hurdles they have for adoption. Sam is also interviewing growers and building a decision-making tool for orchardists, based on what they hope to electrify and what energy can be sold.

Collaborating Researchers: Dr. Dana Hoag, Sam Bryan

Outcomes: A better understanding of the hurdles involved in implementing agrivoltaics in orchards, and how to work on making this feasible.