Combining agriculture with sustainable energy production

Agrivoltaics is a new cultivation system where plants are grown underneath photo-voltaic cells. This way food- and energy production can be combined, improving land use efficiency. By only partially shading the crops, yield losses can be minimized. In this research project we will look at suitable crops, characterize plant physiology underneath solar panels and develop a model that will allow dynamic shading to maximize both biomass- and energy production. We will collaborate with other research groups within KU Leuven with expertise in crop modeling, photo-voltaic cells, energy production, distribution and storage, to ensure that agrivoltaics has a bright and sustainable future.