Agri-Photovoltaic: New opportunities for agriculture in Saxony-Anhalt!

Agri-Photovoltaic: New opportunities for agriculture in Saxony-Anhalt!

Halle (Saale), Deutschland - The future of agriculture in Saxony-Anhalt could be completely redesigned by the innovative Agri-Photovoltaic. This is a concept that enables the simultaneous use of agricultural areas for photovoltaic systems and the production of food. According to Dubisthalle.de , a current project of the Anhalt University of Applied Sciences has been promoted, which was promoted by the Energy Ministry. Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann, the Minister of Energy, emphasized that it was important not to overbid fruitful soils with photovoltaics, but to consider AGRI PV solutions, especially in less fertile areas.

With a budget of 120,197 euros, a comprehensive study was initiated that examines where it can be used sensibly. Under the direction of Prof. Dr. Matthias Pietsch were developed methods that can be used to determine priority areas and potential for open space and agri-photovoltaic systems. These findings are intended to help avoid usage conflicts between renewable energies and agriculture.

a digital tool for area analysis

The goal of the project is clear: valuable agricultural areas should be protected and new uses for renewable energies are to be developed. A digital map application developed as part of the study enables experts to analyze potential areas and thus recognize possible usage conflicts at an early stage. The results of this study are expected to be published in the state portal in 2025.

The focus is not just on scientific knowledge. With the AGRI PV concept, there are also economic opportunities for farmers. According to Fraunhofer ISE not only strengthening the natural resilience compared to harvesting, but also generate stable sources of income that make the companies more independent. The electricity production costs are between 7 and 12 Eurocent per kWh.

Citizen participation is crucial

Another important factor for the success of Agri-Photovoltaic is the early involvement of the local citizens. The concept can only succeed if people accept that their fields serve not only food production but also for energy generation. This is not only a question of acceptance, but also the practical implementation, as in the series of the State Office for the Environment, Agriculture and Geology.

The series of publications also deals, for example, how Agri-Photovoltaic can help solve land use conflicts and what advantages result for farmers and the entire population. With a new guide that summarizes current information and technical developments, farmers, planners and authorities are well equipped to accept these challenges.