What is agrivoltaics?
Far from being a simple juxtaposition of production methods, agrivoltaics represents an intelligent synergy between agriculture and the production of solar energy. It's an innovative approach in which ground-mounted solar panels are installed on a farm to optimise land use. Unlike a traditional photovoltaic installation, which monopolises space, agrivoltaics enables agricultural activity to be maintained, or even improved, under or near the solar structures.
For farm businesses, understanding the fundamental principles of agrivoltaics is crucial to assessing its potential return on investment.
Configurations can vary considerably, but the central objective remains the dual functionality of the site. Here are a few basic principles to consider:
- Optimising sunlight and shading : The layout and spacing of the ground-mounted solar panels are designed to provide partial shading for certain crops or livestock, reducing water stress and potentially improving yields and quality. For other crops, spacing helps to maintain sufficient sunlight.
- Protection of crops and livestock : The structures of ground-mounted solar panels can offer protection against bad weather (hail, heavy rain) and temperature variations, reducing the risks to operations.
- Managing space and accessibility : A design agrivoltaics well designed takes into account the needs of farm machinery, access for crop maintenance or livestock farming, and integration into the landscape. This is a specific challenge for companies that have to reconcile energy production with existing farming practices. Practical solutions exist, such as elevated systems or optimised spacing.
- Double income for the farm : L'agrivoltaics generates additional income from the sale of the electricity produced, diversifying the farm's sources of income and strengthening its financial resilience. It's a strong argument for a return on investment.
By mastering these basic principles, agricultural businesses can better grasp the concrete financial opportunities offered by the integration of theagrivoltaics and ground-mounted solar panels within their business model.
Differences between agrivoltaics and conventional photovoltaics
For farmers looking to diversify their income, it is crucial to make a clear distinction between agrivoltaics and conventional photovoltaics, particularly in terms of impact on the farm and return on investment.
While the installation of solar panels on the ground as part of a conventional photovoltaic project is primarily aimed at producing electricity on a dedicated plot of land, agrivoltaics integrates the production of solar energy with agricultural production on the same area. This fundamental distinction gives rise to significant differences:
- Land use : Conventional photovoltaics monopolise the surface area for electricity production, making the land unsuitable for farming. L'agrivoltaicsOn the contrary, it allows dual use of the land, optimising the overall profitability of the farm.
- Objectives and income : Conventional photovoltaics generate income solely from the sale of electricity. L'agrivoltaics offers a dual source of income: the sale of electricity produced by the ground-mounted solar panels (or raised) and maintain, or even improve, agricultural production.
- Initial investment and complexity : If the initial investment for ground-mounted solar panels in conventional photovoltaics may seem simpler, theagrivoltaics requires more advanced engineering to ensure that activities can coexist. However, this potentially higher initial investment is offset by the additional agricultural benefits and improved value of the project.
- Environmental and social impact : L'agrivoltaics can offer greater environmental benefits by providing shade for certain crops, reducing water consumption and providing protection against climatic hazards. It also helps to maintain farming activity in the area.
- Regulations and financial assistance : Regulations and financial support schemes may differ between conventional photovoltaic projects and 'green energy' projects.agrivoltaicsThese are often encouraged for their multiple benefits. It is essential for agricultural businesses to find out about the specifics of each type of project to optimise their return on investment.
Understanding these differences is a key step for farm businesses wishing to explore the financial opportunities offered byagrivoltaics and integrate sustainable renewable energy production solutions into their operations.
How does an agrivoltaic system work on a farm?
Armed with an understanding of the fundamentals ofagrivoltaicsHowever, it is crucial to analyse how these installations work in practice and their impact on your farm's profitability. A system agrivoltaics is based on the integration of ground-mounted solar panels or elevated within your cultivated or livestock plots. This dual functionality - agricultural production and solar energy generation - is the key to its financial potential. In practical terms:
- Integration of solar panels : The ground-mounted solar panels are installed in such a way as to minimise encroachment on arable land, often by optimising spacing and orientation to capture as much solar radiation as possible, while allowing farm machinery to pass and crops to grow. Elevated structures allow activities to be superimposed, potentially offering greater synergy between agricultural and energy production.
- Power generation : The solar energy captured by ground-mounted solar panels is converted into electricity using inverters. This electricity can be used by the farm to reduce your energy bills (irrigation, buildings, etc.), electric vehicles or injected into the electricity grid, generating an additional source of income via guaranteed purchase contracts.
- Potential synergies : In addition to dual production, a system agrivoltaics can create beneficial synergies for agriculture. Partial shading of ground-mounted solar panels can reduce evapotranspiration, limiting water requirements for certain crops and potentially improving yields in hot weather. Protection against extreme weather (hail, heavy rain) can also be an indirect benefit, securing your crops and your investment.
- Management and maintenance : System integration agrivoltaics involves specific management and maintenance of solar installations, alongside traditional farming activities. It is crucial to anticipate these operational costs in your return on investment analysis. Remote monitoring solutions and maintenance contracts can optimise the performance and sustainability of your installation.
Understanding how this works in detail is essential if we are to accurately assess the financial opportunities and specific challenges associated with adoptingagrivoltaics for your farming business.
Why adopt agrivoltaics?
The adoption of theagrivoltaics offers farmers a range of tangible benefits, translating directly into an improved financial situation and greater sustainability for their business:
- Income diversification and financial security : The electricity generated by ground-mounted solar panels generates a stable and predictable source of income to supplement traditional farm income. This reduces dependence on the vagaries of harvests and markets.
- Optimising land use : L'agrivoltaics allows plots to be used twice, maximising the value of the land asset. Innovative solutions even make it possible to maintain, or even improve, the yield of certain crops under solar structures.
- Reducing operating costs : Self-consumption of electricity generated by ground-mounted solar panels can significantly reduce the farm's energy bills (irrigation, buildings, electric farm vehicles, etc.).
- Enhancing the value of property assets : Installing an agrivoltaic system can increase the value of the farm, making it more attractive for a potential transfer or sale.
- Access to grants and subsidies : A number of financial and regulatory measures have been put in place to encourage the development of theagrivoltaicsmaking the initial investment easier.
Environmental and energy benefits
Over and above the direct financial benefits, the integration of theagrivoltaics is committed to environmental responsibility and makes an active contribution to the energy transition, aspects that are increasingly valued by consumers and public authorities:
- Clean, renewable energy production : The ground-mounted solar panels produce low-carbon electricity, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
- Contributing to energy independence : By producing their own energy, farms contribute to the region's energy security and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.
- Potential for improving biodiversity and soil quality : Certain configurations ofagrivoltaics can encourage biodiversity by creating microclimates and limiting soil erosion.
- Brand image and differentiation : The adoption of sustainable practices such asagrivoltaics strengthens the farm's brand image and can give it a competitive edge with consumers who are sensitive to environmental issues.
Regulation of agrivoltaics in France in 2025
Current legislation onagrivoltaics in France is a complex body of legislation that sets out the conditions for installing and operating photovoltaic installations on agricultural land. For businesses, it is crucial to understand the following aspects:
- Relationship with town planning law : Local planning regulations (Plan Local d'Urbanisme - PLU) can have an impact on the feasibility of projects, and require in-depth analysis beforehand.
- Regulations specific to ground-mounted solar panel installations : Specific rules may apply to the footprint and height of installations and their impact on the environment and landscape.
- Obligations relating to the maintenance of agricultural activity : The legislation insists on the need to maintain significant agricultural activity on the plot of land hosting the photovoltaic installation. Precise criteria can define this requirement.
Authorisation procedures : Companies have to comply with specific administrative procedures to obtain the necessary permits to build and operate their facilities.
Eligibility criteria for agrivoltaic projects
In order to benefit from support schemes and be considered as genuineagrivoltaicsIn order to be eligible, facilities must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria are designed to ensure that the project adds real value to the farm. For businesses, this means :
- Demonstrate the agronomic service provided by the photovoltaic installation: This may involve protection against climatic hazards, improving crop yield or quality, or optimising the use of resources. Agronomic studies may be required to justify this aspect.
- Limit the amount of ground coverage by ground-mounted solar panels: Legislation sets thresholds that must not be exceeded to ensure that a significant agricultural area is maintained.
The thresholds for ground coverage by solar panels vary according to power, location and type of installation.
- General (for > 10 MWp not regulated) : Maximum 40 % cover.
- Agrivoltaics : A decree will shortly specify the maximum threshold to guarantee the primacy of agricultural activity.
- ENAF exempted installations : Specific density and recovery rules exist (see Order of December 2023).
- Ensuring the reversibility of the installation : In some cases, the ability to dismantle the facility and return the land to its original agricultural use may be required.
- Comply with technical and safety standards: The installations must comply with current standards in terms of solar energy production and the safety of people and property.
- Demonstrate the economic viability of the associated agricultural project : Theagrivoltaics must be part of an overall strategy to develop and sustain the farm.
Understanding these eligibility criteria is essential for farm businesses wishing to join theagrivoltaics as a sustainable and profitable solution. The next section of this article will explore the different sources of finance available to make your projects a reality.
What financial support and opportunities are available for agrivoltaics?
Farms wishing to invest in agrivoltaics can benefit from a wide range of public subsidies and support schemes, designed to maximise their return on investment while addressing the specific challenges of the agricultural sector. This financial support plays a key role in the profitability and viability of agrivoltaic projects.
Main devices available:
- European subsidies under the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) The CAP includes specific subsidies for sustainable agricultural practices, such as agrivoltaics. This aid helps to finance part of the cost of installing photovoltaic systems, while supporting the energy transition on farms.
- Guaranteed feed-in tariffs for solar-generated electricity : In France, thanks to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), farmers can benefit from guaranteed tariffs for the sale of electricity over a period of 15 to 20 years. These tariffs, currently between €63 and €70/MWh, provide a stable and predictable source of income.
- National and regional subsidies : Programmes such as those run by ADEME in France or regional funds dedicated to agricultural innovation offer subsidies for agrivoltaic projects. These schemes often include technical advice and support to maximise the efficiency of the project.
- Preferential loans and financial instruments The European Investment Bank is offering low-interest loans through the InvestEU programme, to help finance large-scale agrivoltaic projects.
Economic benefits for farms
Agrivoltaics opens up new economic opportunities for farmers, enabling them to diversify and stabilise their sources of income. By installing photovoltaic panels above their crops or on dedicated plots of land, farmers can receive a regular rent from energy operators, or choose to produce and sell the electricity themselves at advantageous rates thanks to renewable energy support mechanisms.
Over and above this direct income, agri-voltaics also helps to make farms more financially resilient. Photovoltaic shading can reduce the effects of water stress and extreme heat on crops, improving productivity and the quality of harvests. This natural protection reduces losses and limits expenditure on irrigation or weather damage.
What's more, the installation of agrivoltaic solutions is often accompanied by public aid and tax incentives, which lighten the initial investment and speed up the project's profitability. Some local authorities and farming organisations are even encouraging these initiatives as part of the energy transition and the preservation of rural areas.
In short, agrivoltaics is a strategic lever for ensuring the economic sustainability of farms, by combining sustainable agricultural production with energy recovery from available land.
Green electricity buy-back contracts
Green electricity buy-back contracts, also known as Obligation d'Achat (OA) contracts, represent a key financial opportunity for farms investing in agrivoltaics. These schemes enable farmers to secure a stable income by selling the electricity generated by their photovoltaic installations. Here's how these contracts work and why they are strategic for maximising return on investment:
Guaranteeing sustainable farm incomes through agrivoltaism
Obligation d'achat contracts are a pillar of financial security for farmers involved in the production of renewable energy. Generally established for an extended period of 20 years oldThese agreements offer considerable economic visibilityThis enables farmers to plan their investments and their business over the long term, with the assurance of a stable income. This financial sustainability is a key factor in encouraging the energy transition in the agricultural sector and securing farms in the face of economic uncertainties.
Two possible business models: total sale or sale of the surplus
The integration of a photovoltaic installation on a farm opens the way to two distinct economic models for managing the electricity produced: total sale and sale of the surplus. Each of these models has its own specific characteristics and can be adapted in different ways to the farmer's objectives and needs.
- Total sales All the electricity produced is fed into the grid and sold at a favourable rate. This model is particularly suited to farmers who want to maximise their energy income without using their own energy.
- Sale of surplus The electricity not consumed by the farm is sold back to the grid. This model combines a reduction in energy costs with the generation of additional income.
Competitive rates depending on installed capacity
Feed-in tariffs for electricity produced by an agrivoltaic installation are structured to encourage projects of different sizes. They vary significantly according to the installed peak power (kWp), reflecting economies of scale and the objectives of supporting different farm sizes.
By way of illustration, in the fourth quarter of 2024, an agrivoltaic installation with a capacity of up to 100 kWp could benefit from attractive feed-in tariffs. Under a contract for the full sale of the electricity produced, the tariff could be as high as €0.1132 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For operators opting for self-consumption with sale of the surplus electricity not consumed, the feed-in tariff for this surplus was up to €0.0761 per kWh.
Optimising income through additional support
In addition to income from Obligation d'Achat (OA) contracts, agrivoltaics offers farmers significant additional financial opportunities. Visit incentives for self-consumptionspecifically designed to encourage the consumption of electricity produced on site, represent a significant additional source of income. By reducing their dependence on the grid and making direct use of their energy production, farmers can maximise the profitability of their agrivoltaic installations.
In addition, a range of public subsidiesThis financial support can take various forms, such as direct subsidies, loans at preferential rates or tax advantages. This financial support can take various forms, such as direct subsidies, loans at preferential rates or tax breaks. Access to these schemes makes agrivoltaic projects more accessible and improves their long-term economic viability.
The challenges ahead for agrivoltaism
Once you've explored the promising financial opportunities of solar power for your farm, it's essential to be clear about the challenges inherent in this type of project. Rigorous anticipation of these potential obstacles is essential to securing your investment and guaranteeing long-term profitability.
The financial success of an agrivoltaic project is subject to a number of challenges that it is crucial to anticipate at the design stage. In addition to the gradual decline in feed-in tariffs for the electricity produced and the potential reduction in public support, there are a number of other factors that can have an impact on profitability:
- Volatility of electricity prices : Electricity market prices can fluctuate considerably, affecting potential income over and above guaranteed feed-in tariffs (where these exist). It is therefore prudent to incorporate variable price scenarios into your business model.
- Regulatory developments : The regulatory framework for agri-voltaics is still developing and could evolve, leading to new constraints or changes in connection and operating conditions. An active regulatory watch is needed to adapt to potential changes.
- High initial investment costs : Installing an agrivoltaic system represents a substantial initial investment, including the purchase and installation of panels, support structures, connection to the grid, and so on. It's crucial to assess these costs carefully and explore the financing options and grants available to minimise the initial impact on your cash flow.
- Operating and maintenance costs : Regular maintenance of photovoltaic installations (cleaning, inspections), replacement of ageing components and any insurance costs must be factored into financial planning. These recurring expenses can have an impact on the overall profitability of the project over its lifetime.
- Risks associated with the vagaries of the weather and technical breakdowns : Extreme weather conditions (hail, storms) can damage installations, leading to production losses and repair costs. Similarly, technical breakdowns can interrupt electricity production. Appropriate insurance cover and preventive maintenance measures are essential to mitigate these risks.
Agrivoltaism: a model supported by energy companies and private investors
In the context of the financial opportunities offered by agrivoltaics, the partnerships with specialist energy companies and private investors is emerging as the preferred option for farmers seeking to maximise economic benefits while minimising financial and technical constraints. This collaborative approach makes it possible to pool the expertise and capital needed to deploy ambitious agrivoltaic projects tailored to the specific characteristics of each farm.
By joining forces with these players, farmers can gain access to a development model where the financial risks associated with the initial investment are significantly reduced or eliminated. Energy suppliers and investors cover all the infrastructure costs, from design to commissioning of the photovoltaic installations. By taking full responsibility for these costs, farms are freed up from heavy initial outlay, allowing them to concentrate on their core business while benefiting from an increase in the value of their land.
Key benefits of these partnerships include
- Full financing of infrastructure : Initial costs borne by partners.
- Guaranteed additional income : Annual rent or compensation for the use of the land.
- Technical and agronomic expertise : Innovative solutions tailored to your needs.
- Adapting to local conditions : Projects tailored to the context.
- Access to guaranteed feed-in tariffs (PPA) : Long-term security of electricity revenues.
What's more, these partnerships pave the way for additional, secure sources of income over the long term. Whether through annual rents for the use of the land or lump sums paid on connection, the farmer receives stable, predictable income in addition to traditional farm income.
This financial diversification strengthens the farm's resilience to the vagaries of the agricultural market.
How do you make a success of your agrivoltaic project?
The success of such a project depends on rigorous planning and methodical execution. To maximise the return on investment from your agrivoltaic project, you need a structured, strategic approach.
Here are the essential steps, adapted to the specific challenges of farming businesses, to reconcile energy production and farming activity:
- Technical and agronomic audit : Before making any investment, it's crucial to carry out an in-depth analysis of your farm. Assess the compatibility of your plots (sunshine, type of crops, access to networks) and identify possible synergies between photovoltaic panels and farming practices. This stage will ensure that the project is technically feasible and that it fits in harmoniously with your existing farming activity, or even enhances it.
- Economic modelling : To assess the financial viability of your agrivoltaic project, accurate economic modelling is essential. Calculate the installation costs, the subsidies available (such as the France Agrivoltaïsme calls for projects), and project the additional income over 20 years, the typical lifespan of a photovoltaic installation. Don't forget to factor in input savings (optimised irrigation, reduced climatic stress), which can have a positive impact on your overall profitability.
- Choice of partner : Choosing a competent, reliable installer is crucial to the success of your project. Choose installers who are RGE (Reconnu Garant de l'Environnement) certified and have solid references in the agricultural sector. Negotiate reversibility clauses to safeguard your business in the event of need, giving you long-term security.
- Tax optimisation : Agrivoltaics can offer significant tax benefits. Find out more and take advantage of accelerated depreciation or property tax exemptions to improve your cash flow and reduce the tax burden on your farm.
- Monitoring and maintenance : Once the installation is in place, regular monitoring is essential to guarantee its performance and sustainability. Set up energy and agronomic performance indicators (crop yields, electricity production) to adjust the system in real time and optimise the benefits of both activities.
By incorporating these practical solutions from the outset, you can reduce the operational risks and guarantee long-term profitability for your agrivoltaic project, while actively contributing to your region's energy transition and enhancing the value of your farm.
How do you select the right technical and financial partner?
Once you've assessed the financial potential of agrivoltaics for your farm, a crucial decision arises: choosing the partner who will support you in this venture. This subtitle explores the essential criteria for selecting a technical and financial ally whose expertise will guarantee not only the feasibility of your project, but also its long-term profitability.
- Multi-sector expertise Opt for a company with expertise in both agronomic engineering (adapting crops to photovoltaic shading) and energy optimisation (installed power, storage).
- Innovative financing model : Favour co-investment contracts (PPP type) or roof leases to limit financial risks, with performance clauses linked to agricultural and energy yields.
- Regulatory management Choose a partner with experience of local administrative procedures (PLU, operating permits) to speed up deadlines and secure subsidies (EAFRD, regional calls for projects).
- Turnkey solutions Demand an offer that includes an agrivoltaic impact study, biophysical monitoring of plots (IoT sensors) and predictive maintenance of installations.
The challenge is to identify a partner who is aligned with your long-term profitability objectives, and capable of transforming regulatory constraints into sustainable economic levers.
Agrivoltaics summary table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Agrivoltaics combines agricultural production and solar energy on the same land, optimising land use and generating additional income. |
| Benefits for farmers |
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| Environmental benefits |
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| Regulations in 2025 |
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| Eligibility criteria |
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| Financial aid and opportunities |
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| Electricity buy-back contracts |
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| Partnerships |
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| Key steps to success |
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Conclusion
In conclusion, agrivoltaics represents much more than a simple diversification for farm businesses. Given today's economic and environmental imperatives, this innovative approach offers a tangible opportunity to secure and increase the profitability of farms by combining agricultural and energy production on the same plot of land. Although its deployment requires a rigorous analysis of the specific agronomic and technical characteristics, a thorough understanding of the regulations in force in 2025, and a judicious selection of technical and financial partners, the potential benefits in terms of additional income, reduced costs and contribution to the energy transition make it a forward-looking investment for farm businesses wishing to combine economic performance and sustainability.
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