Agri-Photovoltaics
Two Harvests. One Field.
Generate solar energy while continuing to farm – for up to EUR 60,000-80,000/ha revenue per year.
Revenue/ha/year
Faster assessment
Projects
Payback period
What is Agri-Photovoltaics?
Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV) combines solar energy with active agriculture on the same land. Unlike conventional ground-mounted PV, agricultural use is fully preserved. Special solar systems are installed so that crop farming, orchards or livestock can continue underneath.
The farmer earns additional income from electricity generation while keeping up to 85% CAP subsidies. Agri-PV is location-independent — no 500-meter rule like conventional ground-mounted PV. The modules also protect against hail, frost and extreme heat. Crop yield is preserved at 85-95% depending on the system.
The result: Two harvests from one field.
Economics at a glance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Investment cost | EUR 450 — 700 /kWp |
| EEG feed-in tariff | 6.66 ct/kWh |
| CAP subsidy | +EUR 500/ha extra |
| Levelised cost (LCOE) | 4 — 6 ct/kWh |
| Equity return | 14 — 20 % |
| Potential Germany | 500 GW (Fraunhofer ISE) |
Benefits for Farmers
Agri-PV brings tangible benefits for your operation — financially, agronomically and long-term.
Dual land use
Electricity and food from the same land. EUR 60,000-80,000 per ha per year — without giving up or leasing your land.
Protection from extreme weather
The modules protect your crops from hail, frost and extreme sun exposure. Studies show up to 20% fewer harvest losses.
Location independent
No 500-meter rule like ground-mounted PV. Agri-PV can be built directly on your land, away from highways and railways.
Agri-PV Systems Overview
Different systems for different needs — we find the right solution for your operation.
Elevated systems
Modules mounted 4-6 m above the ground. Full mechanical cultivation possible underneath. Ideal for arable farming, orchards and larger machines.
Single-axis tracker
Modules follow the sun on one axis during the day. Maximum yield through optimal orientation. Higher investment, higher electricity output.
Vertical bifacial
Vertical, double-sided active modules in rows. Minimal land use, normal cultivation between the rows.
Polytunnel PV
Combination with protected cultivation. Modules on the polytunnel roof, protected growing underneath with optimised light.
Dual-axis tracker
Highest yield through two-axis tracking. Most complex technology, but maximum output per installed kWp.
Arched systems
Arch-shaped protective structures for sensitive crops. Protection from hail, frost and strong sunlight.
Electricity and food from the same land.
No compromises. Full agricultural use with additional energy generation.
Ground-mounted PV vs. Agri-PV
Not all Agri-PV solutions are the same. With us you stay in control of your land.
| Criterion | Classic open-field | Standard Agri-PV | RecommendedDoppelErnte |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farming possible? | No | Limited | Yes, fully |
| CAP-eligible? | No | Partially | Yes |
| Who benefits? | Investor | Investor & farmer | Farmer first |
| Advisory approach | None | Technical | Holistic |
| Long-term control | With leaseholder | Shared | With the farmer |
Classic open-field
Standard Agri-PV
DoppelErnte
Frequently asked questions about Agri-PV
What is Agri-Photovoltaics?
Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV) is the simultaneous use of agricultural land for food production and electricity generation via solar installations.
What does an Agri-PV installation cost?
Are CAP subsidies preserved?
How large does my land need to be?
From 1 hectare Agri-PV is generally possible, ideal from 2 hectares. For privileging under Section 35 BauGB the limit is 2.5 hectares.
Do I need a building permit?
Yes, via development planning or privileging under Section 35 BauGB (up to 2.5 ha). DoppelErnte guides you through the entire permitting process.
What happens to the harvest?
Crop yield is preserved at 85-95% depending on the system. Elevated systems allow full mechanical cultivation. Modules also protect from hail, frost and extreme weather.
How long does project development take?
8-12 months until building permit. After permitting, typical construction time is 2-4 months.
What subsidies are available?
EEG feed-in tariff (6.66 ct/kWh), CAP subsidy (up to EUR 500/ha extra), possibly KfW loans. Financing models with 15% equity and 85% debt are possible.
Can I also develop a project myself?
Yes, with the DoppelErnte DIY package. You get checklists, guides, 3D visualisation and weekly advisory meetings for independent project development.
Ready for Your DoppelErnte?
Find out if Agri-PV suits your land – free and without obligation.
No obligations. We will get back to you within 2 business days.
