Agriculture + Photovoltaics = Agrivoltaics

​Hawai’i's Climate Action Plan propels the exploration of agrivoltaic systems that merge solar energy and agriculture. Our two-phase project evaluates various crop feasibilities under solar panels, emphasizing indigenous varieties. The research's benefits, like maximized land use and local food security, combined with specific recommendations, aim to guide local farmers and policy decisions, reinforcing Hawai’i's strides in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy.

Key Features

• Dual-Use of Land: allow for the simultaneous cultivation of crops and generation of solar power from the same parcel of land.
• Synergistic Benefits: create a beneficial microclimate for crops, potentially enhancing growth conditions. For instance, the shade provided by solar panels can reduce water evaporation and create a more humid environment for crops. while the crops can also cool panels through evapotranspiration, increasing the panels efficiency.
• Biodiversity: These systems can foster greater biodiversity compared to monoculture cropping systems or solar parks alone, as they create varied habitats with different light and moisture conditions.

Our Goals

- Prioritize Data: Continue meticulous data collection to validate agrivoltaic efficiency within Hawai’i's unique context.
- Engage Local Stakeholders: Collaborate with local farmers, businesses, and policymakers for a more holistic and grounded project approach.
- Expand Crop Research: After the initial focus on lettuce, consider exploring other crops vital for local consumption.
- Public Outreach: Bolster public awareness about agrivoltaics’ benefits to ensure broader acceptance and adoption.

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For more information contact:  Juli Burden [email protected] or Giselle Bryant at [email protected]