From an energy point of view, the main motivation for a project “agrivoltaic” is to allow us to resolve a dilemma: the installation of large photovoltaic plants is relatively cheap, but they require land that could be used for other purposes, such as agricultural production or simply natural landscape. They can also be almost equivalent to a monoculture, which if not done well also has an impact on biodiversity.

Between the two dilemmas, agrivoltaics appears as a solution, because it has no impact on biodiversity, does not occupy the land and therefore allows other uses. Exploring the synergy between photovoltaics and agriculture, in terms of land profitability, is also interesting from an economic point of view.

Ultimately, the potential for use is almost infinite. As an example, to meet Portugal's targets for renewable energy production of 20 GW in 2050 it would be necessary to use 1,5% of Portugal's agricultural area with “agrivoltaic” projects. There is plenty of space, you can choose the best sites, with better connections to the network, without environmental licensing problems.

A Image4All is an Engineering company dedicated to the diagnosis, development and implementation/integrated construction of innovative Energy solutions, across a wide range of Clients and Projects.

In this context, in addition to responding to the agricultural sector, one of Image4All's priorities is optimize energy use to improve profitability and sustainability and this development demonstrates the potential of the combined approach of photovoltaic generation and agricultural production – “agrivoltaic”.

The main benefit of “agrivoltaic” energy is environmental, with the reduction of greenhouse gases. Furthermore, using land for both agriculture and energy alleviates pressure on ecosystems and biodiversity.

This gives rise to several opportunities, such as the decarbonization of the agricultural sector, the dual use of land, the creation of a specialized solution with high export potential or the creation of specialized jobs.

To take advantage of its full potential, partnerships are necessary for its development that involve the different stakeholders.