Agri-PV combines solar energy and agriculture on a single plot of land—and is becoming increasingly important as a solution to the challenges of our time. Forschungszentrum Jülich is conducting intensive research on this topic. In this interview, Dr. Matthias Meier-Grüll and doctoral candidate Chantal Kierdorf explain why Agri-PV offers far more than just electricity generation.

Dual use instead of land loss

In agri-PV systems, solar modules are installed in such a way that farming—whether crop cultivation, fruit growing, or vegetable production—can continue beneath or between them. This means the land is not lost but is put to dual use. In an era of climate change, energy crises, and growing competition for land, this is a decisive advantage. There are also additional synergies: The modules provide shade, protect against hail and heavy rain, help retain water in the soil, and promote biodiversity.

Consider costs in context

A widely discussed study by the Thünen Institute concludes that agri-PV is currently more expensive than traditional ground-mounted photovoltaic systems. However, as Chantal Kierdorf points out, a comparison based solely on electricity costs does not tell the whole story. The study is based on cost data from 2023—prices have already fallen since then. Furthermore, agri-PV is a young technology that is still at the beginning of its learning curve, while traditional ground-mounted systems have been optimized for years.

The key benefits are as follows: Agricultural land is preserved and continues to contribute to the regional food supply. Agri-PV systems can distribute electricity generation more evenly throughout the day, thereby reducing the load on the power grid. Farms can use the electricity directly themselves. And because the land retains its agricultural status, this can result in tax benefits.

What Agri-PV Needs Now

For agri-PV to become more affordable more quickly, what is needed above all are more pilot projects. As Dr. Meier-Grüll explains, this effect is well known from conventional PV: the more systems are built, the further costs fall due to standardization and technological advancements. Targeted support during the initial phase—which would be manageable relative to the total EEG budget—can accelerate this ramp-up.

At the same time, researchers are providing scientific support for commercial projects to determine which plants work best with which PV systems. Initial results show that certain combinations can improve both electricity generation and crop yields.

Conclusion

Agri-PV is more than just a niche technology—it is a promising approach to sustainable land use for the future. Those who judge the technology solely on the basis of electricity prices fail to recognize its full potential for agriculture, the energy system, and regional economic growth.

Read the full interview:
https://www.fz-juelich.de/de/aktuelles/news/pressemitteilungen/2026/agri-pv-mehr-als-nur-strom-vom-acker