Comprehensive review on agrivoltaics with technical, environmental and societal insights

Abstract

The need for large-scale PV power generation is essential for reducing climate change, but land competition is a barrier. Agrivoltaic systems, which combine crop production and photovoltaic power generation, offer a potential solution by increasing the productivity and land use efficiency. Agrivoltaic systems can help in promoting sustainable agriculture and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This review investigates the viability of agrivoltaic systems in a variety of locations, exploring into the technologies used, including panel height, interspace, configuration, and technical innovations. Agronomic practices related to crop selection and crop yield are also reported. Environmental impacts of agrivoltaic systems related to land and water use are discussed. The advantages of the agrivoltaic systems, such as increased land use efficiency, higher crop yields, and lower water use, are thoroughly examined. While the benefits of the agrivoltaic systems are discussed, the review also highlights the challenges associated, such as need for careful planning and the possibility of trade-offs between energy production and crop yields. The study offers technical, environmental and societal insights into agrivoltaic systems as a sustainable and financially viable solution for promoting sustainable agriculture and energy. The work emphasizes the significance of ongoing research and development, and provides recommendations in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.