Review of agrivoltaic demonstration site studies with comparable configurations for a UK-based application

Agrivoltaics is a renewable energy technology which has undergone rapid growth and development over recent years. The dual-land-use solution is considered a sustainable approach to the competing interests of agriculture and energy production. There are a growing number of published studies researching this field, generating evidence of the additional microclimatic benefits of agrivoltaics in reducing heat stress, increasing soil moisture content and enhancing biodiversity. Through the use of a unique sifting process, ten comparable studies are reviewed and explored in relation to a UK adoption strategy for agrivoltaics, comprising published articles on similar climatic conditions, solar irradiance, and agricultural crops. Additionally, the benefits of microclimate and economic aspects have been discussed, highlighting the protection provided to the vegetation due to the presence of photovoltaics while creating a favourable condition locally by regulating the conditions under PV. A scoring matrix was devised to facilitate evaluation based on comprehensiveness of analysis and the quality of information presented, ensuring alignment with the selection criteria established in this study. This matrix serves as a systematic guideline for assessing relevant literature on the topic that suggests the best approach. Simultaneously, a dual income benefit for farmers while achieving the solar target for the county. This review provides an overview of the UK context. It offers insight into how an agrivoltaic future might be realised and recommends key parameters of ‘best practice’ which should be considered when designing a UK based agrivoltaic test study.