Can Farming Thrive Under Solar Panels?

Agrivoltaics, the innovative practice of combining agriculture and solar energy production, is emerging as a promising solution for farmers facing unpredictable weather patterns and financial instability. By allowing solar panels to be installed above crops, farmers like Harpal Dagar have found a way to secure stable income while continuing to cultivate their fields. Despite the benefits, challenges remain in the form of costs, crop compatibility, and the need for supportive government policies. This article explores the current state of agrivoltaics in India, its potential benefits, and the hurdles that must be overcome for wider adoption.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Agrivoltaics combines solar energy generation with agricultural production.
• Farmers can maintain their crops while earning stable income from solar energy companies.
• Current projects are limited, with only around 40 agrivoltaics installations in India.
• High installation costs and crop compatibility are significant barriers to growth.
• Government subsidies and clear contracts are essential for the model's success.

Understanding Agrivoltaics

Agrivoltaics, also known as dual-use solar, refers to the practice of installing solar panels in agricultural settings, allowing for simultaneous crop production and energy generation. The concept has gained traction as a way to address the challenges of climate change and agricultural vulnerability, particularly in countries like India, where a large percentage of the population relies on farming. By utilising the same land for both crops and solar panels, agrivoltaics presents a unique opportunity to diversify income streams for farmers.

The Case for Agrivoltaics in India

In India, where agriculture is a primary source of livelihood for over 55% of the population, the potential benefits of agrivoltaics are significant. Farmers often face unpredictable weather patterns, particularly during the monsoon season, which can lead to substantial crop failures. The introduction of solar energy provides a reliable income source, reducing the financial risks associated with farming.

Harpal Dagar’s Experience

One compelling example is Harpal Dagar, a farmer near Delhi who entered into a 25-year agreement with Sun Master, a solar power firm. By allowing solar panels to be installed above his fields, Mr Dagar has seen his annual income triple. He receives approximately $1,200 (£900) per acre each year, alongside additional payments for maintenance work on the solar panels. This arrangement has provided him with peace of mind, allowing him to continue farming without the stress of crop failure impacting his livelihood.

Challenges Facing Agrivoltaics

Despite the advantages, the uptake of agrivoltaics in India has been slow, with only around 40 projects currently in operation. Several factors contribute to this hesitance, including:

Crop Compatibility

Not all crops thrive under solar panels. The presence of panels can reduce sunlight by 15% to 30%, which can be detrimental to staple crops like wheat and rice. However, high-value crops that require moderate light, such as spices and leafy vegetables, can flourish in these conditions. As Vivek Saraf, CEO of SunSeed, notes, careful selection of crops is essential for the success of agrivoltaics.

High Installation Costs

To accommodate farming underneath, solar panels must be elevated at least 11 feet (3.5 metres) off the ground. This requirement increases installation costs by 20% to 30% compared to conventional solar farms. Smaller farmers often lack the capital to invest in such systems, making partnerships with solar companies imperative.

Need for Government Support

Experts argue that government intervention is crucial to make agrivoltaics more attractive. Subrahmanyam Pulipaka, CEO of the National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI), advocates for subsidies that could alleviate the financial burden on farmers and encourage the adoption of this model. Additionally, clear regulations and support for contract enforcement are vital for protecting the interests of both farmers and developers.

The Future of Agrivoltaics in India

As agrivoltaics continues to develop, there is potential for India to become a leader in this innovative farming practice. The country currently lags behind China, which boasts over 500 operational projects. To catch up, stakeholders must address the challenges outlined above. Proper crop selection, financial support, and a focus on fair contracts will be key to unlocking the full potential of agrivoltaics.

Innovative Solutions

Companies like SunSeed are actively working to optimise agrivoltaics systems for various crops and climatic conditions. Their agrivoltaics simulation software helps predict the effects of different panel configurations on crop yields, allowing for informed decisions about which crops to grow. This level of innovation can significantly improve the viability of agrivoltaics for farmers across India.

Real-World Examples

Another example of agrivoltaics in action is Anand Jain, who transformed his 14 acres of land into an agrivoltaics farm with a generation capacity of 4.5 megawatts. His journey highlights the potential for new entrants to explore this model, although he acknowledges that it remains unattainable for small farmers without strong partnerships with the government and private sector.

Conclusion

Agrivoltaics presents a transformative opportunity for farmers in India, offering a dual income stream while allowing them to continue cultivating their land. However, the path to widespread adoption is fraught with challenges that require collaborative efforts from government entities, private companies, and the farming community. As stakeholders work towards solutions, the future of agrivoltaics in India could pave the way for more resilient agricultural practices in the face of climate change.

As we explore the potential of agrivoltaics, what other innovative solutions do you think could help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions? #Agrivoltaics #SustainableFarming #SolarEnergy

FAQs

What is agrivoltaics?

Agrivoltaics is the practice of using the same land for both agriculture and solar energy production, allowing farmers to generate income from both crops and electricity.

How does agrivoltaics benefit farmers?

Agrivoltaics provides farmers with a stable income from solar energy while allowing them to continue farming their land, reducing the financial risks associated with crop failure.

What are the challenges of agrivoltaics in India?

Challenges include high installation costs, crop compatibility issues, and the need for supportive government policies to incentivise adoption and protect farmers' interests.

Can all crops grow under solar panels?

Not all crops are suitable for growth under solar panels; high-value crops with moderate light requirements, such as leafy vegetables and spices, tend to perform better.

What role does the government play in agrivoltaics?

The government can provide financial support, subsidies, and clear regulations to promote agrivoltaics, ensuring that both farmers and solar developers are protected.