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Applications: New solutions for solar energy developments in agriculture, horticulture, and processing industries

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In recent times, several agricultural-related tenders have appeared in Hungary, offering opportunities for solar energy developments. Professionals involved in such projects, such as grant writers, solar system installers, and clients, often focus only on solar systems with roof-mounted or ground-mounted structures.



            However, there is much more potential in the field of solar energy developments, particularly in the agricultural sector. In this article, we present lesser-known yet highly efficient solutions that, when combined with traditional systems, offer significant advantages to farmers.

            Today, it is still not entirely obvious in Hungary to install so-called agri-PV systems, or solar panels placed on agricultural land. These systems, however, hold huge potential, especially in their two main types:

             Field-scale agri-PV systems: Here, bifacial solar panels are placed high above arable land. These systems are not only suitable for energy production but the support structures can also serve additional functions, such as installing large shading nets or supporting cultivation bridges for vegetable farming. This solution is particularly advantageous because the land can still be used for agricultural purposes while significant energy is being generated.

               Solar panels directly above the plants: These systems are placed directly above the plants with 40-80% light-transmitting glass panels. The solar panels are positioned in a way that regulates the light intake by changing the angle of sunlight, which can be particularly beneficial for orchards, vineyards, or other horticultural crops. This solution allows the plants to grow in optimal lighting conditions while ensuring energy production. There are already several examples of these solutions in Europe, and they successfully demonstrate the advantages of agri-PV systems. We would be happy to provide more detailed information on energy production data and the types of crops that can be cultivated.

            However, in the current applications, it is worth considering other lesser-known possibilities as well. For example, the use of solar carports, parking shelters, or specialized ground-mounted structures for covering agricultural areas, processing sites, yards, and other buildings, which ensure the greatest solar panel coverage on the smallest area.

            Case study: A renowned winery that wanted to install a 200 kW solar system faced serious challenges. The buildings on their land were fragmented and poorly positioned, and the available free land was too narrow for the installation of traditional ground-mounted structures. Moreover, there were significant amounts of unscheduled cables and water pipes running beneath the land, which would have complicated the foundation work and significantly increased the costs.

            We made sure that within three days of the inquiry, we can provide a reliable quote and make the application ready:

1.     We developed a mix for the area, consisting of a special ground-mounted structure and carports that are currently used for machinery and material storage, which can cover the total performance needed.

2.     We applied a ground structure that can be anchored even in rocky, gravelly areas, and we are able to install twice as many solar panels as usual on top of each other, thereby solving the panel placement in the smallest possible area.

3.     Since foundation work is not feasible due to the high costs of replacing utilities, we solved the foundation issue with a gabion stone grid system, avoiding high costs and speeding up installation.

4.     Since we have a static plan for our structures, we were able to easily and quickly adapt the structures to the site, only needing to assign different types to the appropriate locations. This way, we didn’t need to spend time explaining to a structural engineer or architect the considerations for structures suitable for solar energy investments.

5.     We were able to determine the solar irradiance and performance plan for the annual level almost immediately. We coordinated with the solar installer on the type and size of panels they intended to install and adjusted our structure accordingly.

6.     We were able to provide complete documentation that is suitable for the grant writer.

7.     We solved several of the client’s existing problems by ensuring that their smaller and larger machines and packaging would be sheltered under the carport.

8.     The various solutions we proposed present a unified aesthetic image, and green plants can be grown on the gabion weights and structures, with an irrigation system connected to them. This allows us to fully integrate the solution into the environment. We also integrated the entire system into the nearby upscale winery facilities serving customers.

 

            This solution was not only quick but also cost-effective, and we also took aesthetic considerations into account. The gabion structures allowed for the integration of green vegetation, making the entire system harmoniously blend into the winery's surroundings.

            This case study clearly demonstrates that, in the field of solar panel installations, it is worth considering new opportunities alongside traditional solutions, especially in the agricultural sector. The solutions we offer are not only technically competitive but also economically viable, and they aesthetically blend well with the environment. However, for the successful implementation of such a project, close collaboration with grant writers, solar installers, and clients is essential.

           During our collaboration, we ensure quick and accurate quotes, site-specific tailored designs, and complete documentation for the grant applications.

            Our goal is not to take over the role of solar panel installers, but rather to strengthen partnership cooperation so that we can provide the best solutions together for our clients.


Of course, we are also able to handle the entire investment process, including solar panel installation, and we can offer comprehensive consulting services to all parties involved in the project.

If you are involved in agricultural or manufacturing industry tenders and need solar energy development, whether you are a solar panel installer, a grant writer, or an owner, contact us so we can offer customized solutions!




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