Current trends and challenges of agrivoltaic systems towards sustainable production of temperate fruit crops under intensive orchard setups

Abstract

Solar energy is the fastest-growing renewable energy source in the pursuit of a climate-neutral economy. Deploying large-scale solar projects requires large land areas, and in certain cases, land conversion can lead to biodiversity loss, ecosystem disruption, and decreased food production. To address these issues, agrivoltaic systems are emerging as a promising solution, particularly in orchard settings. Agrivoltaic systems enable dual land use by allowing agricultural production and solar energy generation on the same land. The integration of photovoltaic modules with hail and photoselective nets can provide physical protection, reduce thermal stress and risk of fruit damage, improve water use efficiency, and optimize light conditions for plants, leading to improved fruit quality and yields. This synergistic approach supports the development of multifunctional fruit farming systems that are more resilient and productive. Despite their potential, the adoption of agrivoltaic systems remains limited due to high upfront costs, lack of supportive policies, and insufficient understanding of their impacts on local climates and ecosystems. Significant knowledge gaps and policy barriers must be addressed to facilitate wider implementation. This review explores the complex interplay between orchard protection and solar energy generation, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and limitations of integrating agrivoltaic and netting systems. Finally, it emphasizes the need for further research and policy development to unlock their full potential in sustainable agriculture.