Agrivoltaics: A Sustainable Method of Farming for Various Suitable Crops

Agrivoltaics usage in the farmer fields is a new way to get profitable income as this system allows crops cultivation and electricity generation simultaneously on the same piece of land at the same time. This system enables the farmers to gain several benefits such as optimized land use, productivity improvement in the energy and water sector, economic benefits, etc. India receives ample supply of energy from the sun, but it is not yet utilized efficiently. In an agrivoltaic system, the output of crops will be affected by shade which is provided by panels as they allow very little solar radiation passage for fixation of CO2 by crop. Solar radiation, PAR, and Light Saturation Point are vital indices to enhance plant biomass. Generally shade-loving or tolerant crops are preferable under agrivoltaics. However, shade-intolerant crops can also be grown in interspaces where crops can capture a sufficient amount (> 50%) of sun-light. The shade provided by APV creates a microclimate suitable for practicing cultivation in arid regions, livestock (rangevoltaics) and aquaponics etc. Some of the crops like cherry, bell pepper, lettuce, grapes, berries, and other cool season crop plants etc. showed better response under APV and reported enhanced growth, yield, and quality compared to conventional farming. The electricity generated by PV would improve the farmer’s socio-economic status, and land productivity and helps to curtail environmental pollution.