On the ground of the Agricultural Technology Centre (LTZ) Augustenberg in Karlsruhe, we erected the static part of an agri-photovoltaic research facility well before the first blossom. The construction extends over an existing orchard.
The system, erected with the GMS® DOUBLE mounting system from MKG GÖBEL, was designed as a static east-west system. It has a height of approx. 4 metres in order to meet the needs of the already existing pear and apple trees. In addition to generating electricity, special attention is paid to the protection of the plantation and the harvest. Semi-transparent modules (50% light transmission) were installed to ensure that the fruit trees receive sufficient light. We also designed the system to enable the installation of tree support wires and hail protection nets️. We also satisfied another requirement by installing a metal sheet in the ground: To protect the sensitive tree roots from voles.
As such, the project at LTZ Augustenberg is a prime example of the forward-looking combination of solar energy and agriculture. It not only provides valuable insights into the development of fruit under agrivoltaic systems, but also tests solutions for the practical protection of trees and crops, which can contribute to increasing efficiency in agriculture in the long term.
Project data
- Agri PV project Augustenberg near Karlsruhe
- Partial power: ca. 216 kWp
- ca. 720 modules
- System: GMS® DOUBLE
- Start of construction: April 2024
- Client: AgriPV-Solutions GmbH
