Agro-fotonaponski sistemi kao sinergija poljoprivredne i proizvodnje električne energije

Abstract

Having in mind the deteriorating conditions for agricultural production due to climate change, there are more and more factors that justify the use of agro-photovoltaic or agrivoltaic systems. The systems offer an innovative, efficient and cost-effective solution for the simultaneous development of sustainable agricultural production and renewable energy production. Besides, they increase land use by synergizing agricultural infrastructure with photovoltaics, making rural communities more competitive and sustainable. In this way, farmers have the opportunity to develop a new source of income without leaving agricultural production. Installed directly above agricultural crops, solar panels protect plants from excessive sunlight, heat, maintain soil moisture, protect from hail and frost, enabling a stable yield with the simultaneous production of electricity. The benefits of using APV systems can be increased thanks to digital solutions being adapted to crop needs by optimizing the level of shading or soil moisture in relation to electricity production. Solar energy can be used to drive irrigation pumps, thus replacing diesel generators, as well as for the purpose of processing agricultural products and powering equipment and rolling stock on farms. Individual farmers as well as cooperatives can benefit from the application of these systems, given that the experience so far shows an increase in farm income of over 30%. The technical and economic feasibility of APV projects has been proven in many countries, and the lack of an appropriate regulatory framework is probably the biggest obstacle for their potential to be realized. Investments in these projects are higher compared to conventional photovoltaic systems installed on the ground so, at this moment, it is necessary to design and implement certain support measures to achieve positive economic effects in the Republic of Serbia (AP Vojvodina). Taking into account the climatic conditions in the territory of Serbia (AP Vojvodina), as well as the crops that are grown, it is necessary to examine the possibility of applying these systems primarily to vegetable and fruit crops.