An unstable climate and fluctuating markets: faced with economic pressure, farmers have every reason to diversify their activities. Electricity production, a growing trend, is perfectly compatible with the operation of a farm. Discover all the advantages of agrivoltaics.

Agrivoltaics: what is it?

Choosing theagrivoltaicsIt involves combining agricultural production and green electricity production on the same farm. Its benefits are numerous, both from an environmental and economic perspective.

A stable supplementary income

Regulated by French law, agrivoltaic solutions have one main purpose: to help maintain or develop agricultural activity. In other words: by producinggreen electricityFarmers secure a sustainable income and can manage their farms with greater peace of mind.

These regular revenues have the advantage of being completely independent of annual yields and weather conditions. The production and resale of green electricity are based on long-term purchase contracts, thus guaranteeing financial visibility that is all the more valuable and reassuring for the operator.

Support for France's energy transition

Agrivoltaics in France is also an effective solution for contributing significantly to the country's energy transition. Farms, often very large, can then become doubly profitable.

By producing green electricity, farms play an active role and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Protected livestock and crops

In addition to renewable electricity productionAgrivoltaics also promotes the protection of livestock. In case of extreme heat, animals can graze under the installed structures. These structures can also serve to protect crops (against inclement weather such as hail or frost).

An appreciation of agricultural heritage

Whatever their type, electricity production facilities significantly increase the value of a farm. They therefore represent a considerable advantage when transferring or taking over an agricultural project as a whole.

Which agrivoltaic solutions should we consider?

Talking about agrivoltaics is good, but knowing the options available to farmers is even better. Let's now explore the solutions to consider for your farm when its primary purpose is to be preserved.

Solar shade structures for sheep and cattle

Specifically designed to meet the needs of cattle and sheep farmers, these solar shade structures make it possible to ideally combine livestock farming and electricity production.

This solution is ideal for those looking to maximize the value of their land. Owners of agricultural land can thus see their land, whether fallow or not, rehabilitated. Furthermore, it's worth noting that the installed photovoltaic systems are not standardized, but rather specifically adapted to the agricultural realities of each farm. Density, height, row spacing: everything is customized.

The benefit is twofold: agricultural production continues while electricity is generated in parallel. Climate protection is real, both for livestock and for the pasture itself. These benefits are particularly noticeable during dry periods.

Solar hedges

Solar hedges are another agrivoltaic solution to consider. They allow for the production of renewable energy, which is financially attractive (through land rental) but does not encroach on agricultural land.

Placed vertically, solar hedges adapt to the realities of the agricultural world. Thanks to a modular anchoring system, they allow for the passage of machinery and the grazing of cattle. In short, they blend into the background while representing a valuable source of supplementary income for farmers and/or landowners.

And for good reason: the bifacial panels that make them up optimize green energy production thanks to the albedo phenomenon. Their front and back surfaces capture energy from sunrise to sunset, in all seasons.

Misconceptions about agricultural electricity production

Although it is developing more and more widely, agrivoltaics is still little known in France and raises some questions.

It is important to remember that combining agricultural activity and energy production is possible. They complement each other, without replacing one another. However, agricultural activity must remain the primary focus for the farm to retain its agricultural status.

Furthermore, electricity production is fully compatible with the majority of crops and livestock. In principle, there are no limitations to consider, except in specific cases. It has even been demonstrated that photovoltaic installations can have tangible benefits for crops and also improve animal welfare. This is yet another way to secure agricultural income in both the short and long term.

Farmers and green energy: tips for a solid agrivoltaic project

Are you looking to start producing green electricity on your farm? Let's finish with some tips that will help you turn this ambitious idea into a fully successful project.

Request a personalized study

Before considering investing in any photovoltaic installation on your farm, you must assess the actual profitability of your project. To do this, a technical and economic study conducted by professionals is essential.

It will allow you to:

• to assess the energy potential you can claim,
• and to have a concrete overview of investment costs.

This will allow you to determine whether your agrivoltaic project is profitable or not, and in what form it can be developed.

Comply with regulations and choose reputable professionals

Generating green electricity on a farm is a strictly regulated process. Each step, from the initial administrative authorizations to grid connection, must therefore be followed. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises once your project is up and running.

Surrounding yourself with reputable and certified professionals also guarantees the viability of your installation. An agrivoltaic project is both a financial and human investment. Benefiting from the best advice and effective support remains essential.

Today, electricity production can be considered an effective solution for diversifying the activities of a farm. This reliable source of income secures farmers' livelihoods while respecting the environment. A true driver of the future for farmers and/or landowners wishing to adapt to climate realities, agrivoltaics promises strong economic performance.