Photovoltaics in Agriculture: Solar Energy for Farms and Agricultural Businesses

Prior PV
2024-10-15 10:31:00

Agriculture is faced with the challenge of finding sustainable solutions to rising energy costs and more environmentally friendly production. Photovoltaics (PV) offers agricultural companies a way to generate electricity in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way, reduce operating costs and at the same time contribute to the energy transition. This guide highlights the advantages, areas of application and technical requirements of photovoltaic systems in agriculture and shows how farmers can benefit from using this technology.

1. Advantages of photovoltaics in agriculture

Installing a photovoltaic system on a farm offers numerous advantages:

  • Cost savings: Electricity consumption on farms is often high, especially due to the operation of machinery, irrigation systems, cooling systems and other equipment. With a photovoltaic system, farmers can generate the electricity they need themselves and become independent of rising electricity prices. The self-consumption of solar power reduces the electricity bill considerably.

  • Sustainability and climate protection: By using photovoltaics, agriculture can reduce its CO₂ emissions and operate more sustainably. This is not only good for the environment, but also strengthens the positive image of the company among consumers, who increasingly value climate-friendly food.

  • Additional source of income: In addition to self-consumption, the solar power generated can be fed into the public grid. Through the feed-in tariff or direct marketing, this can represent an additional source of income for the agricultural company.

  • Use of large roof areas: Agricultural companies often have large buildings such as stables, barns or warehouses, the roofs of which are ideal for photovoltaic systems. These areas are often unused, but offer an optimal opportunity to generate energy without taking up additional space.

  • Long-term investment: A photovoltaic system usually has a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. The initial investment is often paid off after just a few years through savings in electricity costs and the feed-in tariff, which means that the system offers a significant economic advantage in the long term.

2. Areas of application of photovoltaics in agriculture

Photovoltaic systems can be used in agriculture in various ways:

  • Roof areas of stables and barns: These offer large, sun-exposed areas that are ideal for installing solar modules. Barn roofs in particular, which often have a slope of 15-30 degrees, offer ideal conditions.

  • Open space systems: Farmers who have unused open space can use it for open space photovoltaic systems. These offer the advantage that they can be used independently of buildings and are particularly suitable for larger systems. However, local approval processes and requirements may have to be taken into account.

  • Agrophotovoltaics (APV): A newer and innovative application is agrophotovoltaics, in which solar modules are installed over agricultural land. This technology makes it possible to use the land both to generate electricity and to grow crops. This is particularly useful in regions with strong sunlight, as the solar modules provide shade and can thus have a positive effect on plant growth.

  • Solar carports and machine shelters: These not only offer protection for vehicles and machines, but can also be used to generate electricity. Such constructions are particularly useful for companies that have less suitable roof areas.

3. Technical requirements and planning

Planning a photovoltaic system for an agricultural business requires careful consideration and specialist knowledge. The following aspects should be taken into account:

  • Site analysis: The location plays an important role in planning the system. Roof areas should face south if possible and not be shaded by trees or other buildings. For open-space systems, the amount of sunlight and the nature of the soil are crucial.

  • Sizing of the system: The size of the photovoltaic system should be tailored to the power requirements of the farm. A precise Analysis of the consumption profile helps to choose the right dimensioning and maximize self-consumption.

  • Grid connection and storage systems: In rural areas, the grid connection can be a decisive factor. If there are problems with the grid connection, storage systems are a good option that temporarily store the excess solar power and can be used later. This increases self-consumption and reduces dependence on the power grid.

  • Subsidies and financing: There are numerous subsidies for photovoltaic systems in agriculture, both at national and regional level. The KfW Bank in particular offers attractive financing options, and subsidy programs such as the EEG (Renewable Energy Sources Act) or agricultural subsidy programs also offer support. It is worth checking these options and incorporating them into your planning.

4. Legal framework

Farmers must observe a number of legal requirements when installing a photovoltaic system. These include:

  • Registration with the grid operator: Every photovoltaic system must be registered with the local grid operator. The grid operator checks the connection options and regulates the feed-in contract.

  • Permits for open-space systems: Building permits are often required for open-space systems because they must be integrated into the agricultural land use plan.

  • Tax aspects: In many cases, photovoltaic systems are considered economic investments, which can bring tax advantages. In addition, income from the feed-in tariff is subject to income tax and sales tax. Consulting a tax expert is therefore advisable.

Conclusion

Photovoltaics offers agricultural businesses numerous advantages, both economically and ecologically. By using the roof areas or open spaces that are already available, farmers can not only reduce their energy costs, but also contribute to a sustainable energy supply. However, planning and implementation requires a careful site analysis, consideration of technical requirements and compliance with legal regulations. With a well-planned photovoltaic system, agricultural businesses can benefit in the long term and make their business future-proof.