Agri-PV in Open Field Vineyard Cultivation

Brite Solar is supporting an innovative Agri-PV installation at the Western Colorado Research Center of Colorado State University (CSU). The project explores how semi transparent Agri-PV systems can interact with grapevine cultivation in an open field environment, combining agricultural production with clean energy generation on the same land.

▪️ Agri-PV Project Overview

The Agri-PV structure is positioned above grapevines, allowing natural light to reach the canopy while generating renewable energy on site. The installation is part of an ongoing scientific effort to better understand vineyard performance under Agri-PV conditions.

▪️ Agri-PV in Open Field | How It Works

Semi transparent solar panels allow sunlight to reach the plants while converting part of the solar radiation into electricity. The vines continue to grow beneath the structure while the installation produces renewable energy. Partial shading helps protect shoots from excessive heat and intense radiation, and reduces water evaporation from the soil. The system is engineered for open field conditions, offering long term durability, high mechanical strength and a lifetime exceeding 25 years.

▪️ Early Research Observations

Researchers at Colorado State University have observed preliminary and non finalized indications during the early phase of monitoring. Initial measurements suggest that nighttime temperatures beneath the panels may be warmer than the surrounding open field, with differences greater than 3°C on calm nights. This is notable because frost is widely recognized as a major challenge for grape and tree fruit production in the region.
These observations remain preliminary, and further research is required before any conclusions can be made.

▪️ Benefits of Agri-PV for Vineyards

▪️ Protection from extreme weather conditions such as excessive heat, frost and heavy rain
▪️ Reduced water evaporation and improved irrigation efficiency
▪️ Ability to grow food and produce clean energy simultaneously

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

▪️ What is Agri-PV in open field cultivation
Agri-PV refers to the installation of solar panels above agricultural crops, allowing food and energy production simultaneously.

▪️ How much sunlight reaches the vines
Semi transparent panels allow natural light to pass through to the crop. The transparency level is defined based on the crop being grown beneath the panels, as well as the local climate conditions of the region.

▪️ What about the energy production
The installation is connected to the grid, allowing the generated energy to be fed into the power network.

➡️ Discover how Agri-PV can support your crop and create new opportunities for sustainable agriculture.

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