Working Together to Enhance the Value of Farmland
Agrivoltaics, sometimes referred to as dual-use solar, is an innovation that combines solar energy production with agriculture. At Boralex, we firmly believe in the potential of agrivoltaics to foster the sustainable development of agriculture. Our leading-edge agrivoltaics solutions are designed to benefit farm operators and communities alike.
We work hand in hand with farmers to develop projects that bring added value to their business. Our pledge is simple: to ensure solar panels integrate smoothly into your farming operations, and not the other way around. It’s not just a matter of ensuring that solar production and agriculture coexist. It’s a commitment to nurturing a synergy between the two and harnessing the best of both to protect animal welfare, maximize agronomic potential and impact, protect against weather events and adapt to climate change.
What are the benefits of agrivoltaics ?
How Do Agrivoltaics Work?
Agrivoltaic systems are compatible with various crops and livestock. The exact choice of technology is dictated by how the land is being used in order to ensure the best possible integration of agricultural and energy production. In other words, the type of farm and the needs specific to the activities being carried out on the land will determine the most suitable type of agrivoltaic array.
The two most frequently used agrivoltaic technologies at Boralex are:
- Fixed-tilt systems: Set at a certain angle to the ground, allowing for maximum sunlight exposure for the panels, while providing shade for crops or livestock.
- Sun-tracking systems: These follow the sunlight from east to west throughout the day. We have teamed up with Sun’Agri to use a real-time technology programmed to meet the ideal conditions of certain crops.
With both systems, agrivoltaics offers a maximum of flexibility so that panels can be adjusted to meet the farming operator’s needs and integrate harmoniously with the surrounding environment. In some cases, agrivoltaics can also be used to foster innovation and restore the full potential of a given plot of land or crop that has been neglected or abandoned due to unsuitable climate or soil conditions.
Good for Crops, Good for Animals
There are several reasons crop and livestock farmers may want to consider agrivoltaics. Agrivoltaic panels provide shade for animals, therefore improving their comfort and reducing heat stress. Data shows grass under the panels grows better year-round, which can help extend the grazing season. Agrivoltaics can also improve the way water is managed and accessed through rain water recovery and optimal irrigation, thereby helping to mitigate the effects of heat waves and droughts. Some systems protect crops from harsh weather conditions such as hail, frost and extreme heat, thus making it possible to develop agricultural projects in line with the needs of farms and specific climate and soil characteristics. Last but not least, these systems provide better access to the land, making it easier to ensure the sustainable development of farming operations.
Custom Support from Boralex
Teamwork is the key to success in any development project. Which is why we are delighted to work closely with and for you, using solutions adapted specifically to different types of crop and livestock production.
We are committed to full transparency at every stage of your project development journey. From day one all the way through to project completion, your land, your operations and your needs will be our top priority.
Once the development phase is done, we will take over and provide all services on a turnkey basis. And we will remain your sole point of contact throughout the life cycle of the agrivoltaic system on your property.
- Identification of your agricultural needs: Together, we will determine the best dual-use solar strategy to be implemented.
- Technical and financial logistics: Your specific requirements will shape the choice of system to be used.
- Procedures and administrative approvals: We will meet with agricultural and institutional stakeholders to advocate for your interests.
- Construction, operation and decommissioning: We will remain in communication with you over the long term and keep you posted on Boralex-related developments relevant to you.
This support will ensure the solutions we provide are a good match for each agricultural landowner’s operational needs.
Photo credit : Sun'Agri