Agrivoltaics: solar energy and agriculture on the same land
The energy transition needs solutions capable of generating renewable energy efficiently, while respecting the agricultural, environmental and social value of the land. In this context, agrivoltaics is emerging as one of the most relevant innovations in the solar sector.
Agrivoltaics, also known as agrovoltaics, is a solution that combines agriculture, livestock farming and solar photovoltaic energy in the same space. Its goal is to produce renewable energy while maintaining the agricultural or livestock use of the land and creating new opportunities for rural communities.
In this article, you will discover what agrivoltaics is, how solar energy can coexist with farming and livestock activity, why Italy is a key market for this model, and how Solarig is working to promote renewable solutions that create value for the land.
It is not about choosing between farming and energy. Agrivoltaics proposes a dual land-use model in which solar panels coexist with crops, pasture, biodiversity and local economic activity. As explained by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, these systems are designed so that crops, pasture or fruit trees can continue developing, while also enabling access for agricultural machinery or livestock.
01. Renewable energy compatible with farming
Agrivoltaics makes it possible to advance the energy transition while maintaining the productive value of agricultural land. According to recent European Commission discussions on agrivoltaics, well-designed agrivoltaic systems can support farmers’ income diversification, strengthen climate resilience and promote more efficient land use by combining renewable energy generation with agricultural activity on the same land.
The installation is designed so that the land maintains an agricultural, livestock or environmental function, integrating solar production with primary-sector activity.
02. Greater resilience for the primary sector
In a context of rising costs, climate volatility and pressure on agricultural margins, agrivoltaic projects can open up new forms of collaboration and stable income for farmers and livestock producers.
With the right design and direct collaboration with local stakeholders, agrivoltaics can support rural communities while helping to meet current and future energy needs.
03. Soil, biodiversity and landscape
Beyond energy generation, agrivoltaic systems can contribute to healthier and more resilient rural landscapes. When properly designed, they can incorporate pollinator-friendly habitats, native vegetation, grazing areas and soil conservation measures, helping to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem services and maintain agricultural productivity over the long term.
04. Italy, a key market for agrivoltaics
Italy combines high solar potential, a strong agricultural tradition and a specific framework to promote agrivoltaic systems. The Italian Ministry for the Environment and Energy Security has published guidelines to define the characteristics and requirements of agrivoltaic installations, while the GSE promotes the development of agrivoltaic systems within the framework of the PNRR.
At Solarig, we understand agrivoltaics as an opportunity to show that the energy transition can generate environmental, economic and social value for the land. Our presence in Italy combines technical expertise, industrial capacity and local knowledge to develop renewable projects that strengthen energy security and create sustainable value for communities. This approach is aligned with the objectives of Italy’s energy transition strategy and with the support mechanisms introduced under the PNRR to accelerate the deployment of advanced agrivoltaic systems across the country.
Agrivoltaics does not replace agriculture: it seeks to combine renewable generation, agricultural activity and local value through a design that is compatible with the land.
05. A model for the present and the future
Demand for renewable energy is growing, as is the need for more resilient food systems. Agrivoltaics responds to this challenge with a simple and powerful idea: making better use of land without setting agriculture against renewable energy. With planning, clear standards and collaboration, it can become a tool to support the primary sector, accelerate decarbonisation and strengthen rural economies.
At Solarig, we will continue working to develop renewable solutions that respect the land, build trust and contribute to an energy transition that is compatible with people, farming and the future.
Frequently asked questions about agrivoltaics
What is agrivoltaics?
Agrivoltaics is a model that combines solar photovoltaic energy and agricultural or livestock activity on the same land.
Are agrivoltaics and agrovoltaics the same thing?
Yes. Both terms are used to describe the integration of solar energy and agriculture. The international term agri-PV is also used.
Does agrivoltaics replace agriculture?
No. Its aim is to maintain agricultural or livestock activity while adding renewable energy generation through a compatible design.
What activities can be integrated into an agrivoltaic project?
Crops, pasture, livestock farming, beekeeping, pollinator habitats and biodiversity measures can be integrated, always adapted to each specific site.
Why is Italy important for agrivoltaics?
Italy combines high solar potential, agricultural tradition and a specific framework to promote agrivoltaic systems, making it a key market for this model.
Solarig, sustainable energy solutions for society
Solarig develops, finances, builds and operates infrastructure for the energy transition. It currently has an energy project portfolio exceeding 20 GW across 12 countries, covering areas such as solar photovoltaic, wind power and battery energy storage. The company drives global decarbonisation in the regions where it operates through renewable energy solutions, green gases such as biomethane, and advanced technologies centred on green molecules. Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, it has a strong presence in Europe, Central and South America, Japan and Australia. Committed to innovation, diversity and sustainability, Solarig employs a team of over 1,500 professionals.
