Agri-PV in Open Field Cherry Orchard Cultivation

Cherries Under Agri-PV Installation | Romania

This project in Romania demonstrates how an agri pv installation can support orchard cultivation while improving crop protection and farm resilience. The Agri-PV system combines cherry production with solar infrastructure specifically designed for agricultural environments. Two types of panels were used in the system: 100% transparency – 0 Wp and 80% transparency – 120 Wp.

The first type of panels produces 0% electricity and functions as specialized solar glass with AR-H coating (Anti-Reflective & Hydrophobic). These panels are designed primarily for crop protection, shielding orchards from extreme weather conditions while maintaining high light transmission for the trees. Alongside them, the second type of panels generates renewable electricity while still allowing sunlight to reach the crops below.

Together, the system demonstrates how an Agri-PV installation can integrate crop protection, optimized light conditions and renewable energy generation in modern fruit orchards.

Frost Protection in Practice

Field observations from agrivoltaics installations in Romania have provided clear comparative evidence of frost protection benefits. Cherry trees growing beneath agrivoltaic structures remained protected during severe frost events, while trees in adjacent uncovered fields experienced extensive frost damage.

In areas with cherries under agri pv, the covered orchard sections showed reduced ground-level freezing and lower cold stress on both soil and crops. This outcome is linked to the physical presence of the Agri-PV structure, which helps limit heat loss during cold nights.

By acting as a protective canopy, the agri pv installation creates a more stable thermal environment, helping orchards better withstand sudden temperature drops and improving crop resilience in climates where spring frost can threaten fruit production