What is the agricultural energy storage pilot project

Can agrivoltaic systems improve apple orchards?

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) are exploring different scenarios to optimize both the photovoltaic panel positioning and the underlying crops. A pilot project in Nussbach will contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of agrivoltaic systems on apple orchards and the surrounding environment.

Should solar panels be integrated with crops?

By integrating solar panels with crops, these systems not only address the land use conflict between agriculture and energy production, but they also provide important benefits such as reducing crop water stress and offering protection against extreme weather events.

What is agrivoltaic design optimization tool?

The tool automates design optimization of agrivoltaic systems based on key performance indicators, the interface with different crop models, and the integrated simulation of specialty crops. It allows direct calculation of the light received by the crop and a more accurate simulation of its impact on the overall agrivoltaic system.

What can we do with solar energy?

On farm energy generation with solar panels, flow batteries and peer to peer energy trading; electrification of LPG fuelled equipment A rigorous evaluation process was undertaken to select proponents to participate in the pilot projects.

How much does a pilot project cost in NSW?

On 11 December 2020, the Hon Minister Adam Marshall publicly announced those projects to proceed to pilot with NSW DPI contributing 50% of total project cost with a total co-investment of $2.5 million. Links to an overview of the feasibility case studies and summary of each of the funded studies can be found below:

Can smart solar trackers improve farming?

According to corresponding author Maddelena Bruno, who is leading the study as a doctoral candidate at Fraunhofer ISE, “Our study shows that the combination of solar energy and farming can be enhanced by smart PV-trackers that adjust the position of solar panels based on weather conditions, crop types, and their growth stages.