A study from Aarhus University in Denmark tested vertical agrivoltaics in wheat cultivation. Results highlight both challenges in design and potential benefits for energy, crops, and social acceptance.
New functions for solar panels: “energy hedges”
The integration of agriculture and photovoltaics has opened the door to a host of possibilities, many of which still need to be tested to ensure solar panels can truly maximize land-use efficiency and crop yields. This is not limited to hot or arid climates. A new study from Aarhus University in Denmark has explored the benefits of vertical agrivoltaics for wheat cultivation in a temperate environment.
Researchers focused specifically on bifacial solar modules used as windbreaks for arable crops, essentially replacing natural hedgerows historically used in northern Europe to protect fields from strong winds, reduce soil erosion, and boost productivity. The study aimed to understand the impact of vertical agrivoltaic systems at higher latitudes, both environmentally and socially.
Study details on vertical agrivoltaics
The investigation involved two 44.4 kW pilot systems in Denmark: one with bifacial solar panels installed vertically and another oriented south at a 25° tilt. Both were located in Foulum. During the first year, researchers cultivated winter wheat and clover between the panel rows, measuring yields and microclimatic effects.
From an energy perspective, modeling had suggested little difference between annual yields of the vertical system (914 kWh/kWp) and the south-facing one (1048 kWh/kWp). However, field results showed much lower electricity generation for the vertical setup, mainly due to shading from the steel structure. Scientists stressed that these issues were specific to the prototype’s design and could be avoided in future installations.
Advantages of vertical solar systems
Despite lower annual output, the vertical system showed distinct advantages. Its configuration boosted electricity generation in the morning and late afternoon, aligning better with demand peaks. This means the overall lower annual generation could be offset by the higher value of power produced during these critical hours.
Additionally, vertical agrivoltaic systems demonstrated slightly higher efficiency at warmer ambient temperatures thanks to improved natural heat dissipation.
Impact on crops
At the same time, crops grown between vertical panels showed no decline in yield compared to open fields. “Even with some shade, yields per square meter were essentially the same. Crops do not seem to mind the presence of solar panels and benefit from the wind protection they provide,” explained Professor Uffe Jørgensen.
Average wind speeds measured:
- 2.7 mph between vertical panels
- 3.6 mph between south-facing panels
- 5.4 mph in open fields
Vertical modules also altered wind dynamics, reducing flows from the west and southwest.
Since panels covered only about 10% of the field area, the combined system required significantly less land compared to separate installations. Researchers calculated that producing the same amount of electricity and food separately would require 18–26% more land.
Social acceptance of vertical agrivoltaics
The study also addressed public perception. To assess social acceptance, the team conducted an immersive virtual reality (VR) survey with over 100 participants. Vertical agrivoltaic systems received significantly more positive evaluations than conventional solar farms, being perceived as “more innovative and environmentally friendly.”
The findings were published in Energy Nexus under the title Vertical agrivoltaics in a temperate climate: Exploring technical, agricultural, meteorological, and social dimensions.
Also read: Floating photovoltaics on lakes, where is the greatest potential?
