It took just 13 days for all investment options for the agri-PV park in Pischelsdorf am Engelbach in Upper Austria to be finalised. EWS Cosulting had given all citizens the opportunity to participate in part of the plant with a capacity of 4.58 megawatts via a crowdinvest. Citizens were able to finance a total of 2.2 megawatts of capacity. The minimum investment was 100 euros. The investment runs for five years and earns a very generous 4.3 per cent interest.

Developing projects together with the communes

For Gerhard Steindl, CEO of EWS, such financing options are a matter of course. „We develop our Sonnenfeld projects holistically – together with municipalities, agriculture and research,“ he explains. „Sustainable planning and fair co-operation are the best way to achieve domestic renewable energy production, which makes us independent of expensive fossil fuel imports and strengthens our business location at the same time.“

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Locals have made substantial investments

This is why EWS is particularly keen to offer financial participation. „Citizens can actively participate in the energy transition and benefit from it,“ says Gerhard Steindl, explaining the approach of involving local residents in particular. They took advantage of the opportunity. At 36 per cent, an extremely high proportion of the participations were subscribed by the citizens of Pischelsdorf. „We are very pleased that the opportunity for citizens to participate in our agri-PV plant has been so well received, especially from the local population,“ emphasises Gerhard Steindl. „The high proportion of residents also reflects the local recognition and appreciation of the project.“

PV from field and barn: Our new special for the dual harvest on farms is now online

Only two per cent area for photovoltaics

The plant in Pischelsdorf is not just about generating electricity. This is only an add-on to the continued use of the area as farmland and grassland. This means that 80 per cent of the land can continue to be used for agricultural purposes after the solar plant has been installed. A further 18 per cent are biodiversity strips, and only two per cent are actually used for the mounting structure.

Bruck energy park brings in first harvest from under solar modules

Completion planned for this year

The agri-PV project is expected to be completed and connected to the grid in spring 2025. According to the planners’ calculations, the generator will then supply around six million kilowatt hours of clean solar power – in addition to food. (su)





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The regulatory landscape for BESS in Europe is influenced by EU directives aimed at accelerating the shift to cleaner energy sources. Notable policies include the Clean Energy for All Europeans Package and the European Green Deal, which emphasize the uptake of energy storage technologies. However, each country adopts its own set of regulations and at different pace, which can significantly impact the attractiveness of BESS investments. These regulations influence areas such as:

–  Market access and participation rules

–  Tariffs and fees related to electricity consumption and storage

–  Incentives and support mechanisms for renewable energy and storage solutions

–  Safety and environmental standards for energy storage technologies 

Different revenue models & market maturity

Revenue generation for BESS is derived from various sources, including energy arbitrage, capacity markets, frequency regulation services, and ancillary services. The availability of these revenue streams varies by region based on market structures and regulations. Market maturity reflects the level of development of the energy market, the deployment of technology, and the investment climate for BESS projects. Mature markets tend to offer more robust regulatory support and established business models.

Also see: Large battery storage systems as new champions

In the following BESS business cases in selected countries 

Germany

Germany is the most developed market for CCE in continental Europe. It offers a dynamic environment, and we currently have one project in construction and three more in preparation with a total of approximately 50 MW. Our target is to grow our operational portfolio to around 250 MW, complemented with further assets on the medium voltage and high-voltage levels, in the course of 2026. The market is developing rapidly: CAPEX has fallen by around 30% since the beginning of the year, commercialization and financing strategies are maturing and therefore offering investors an ecosystem that supports growth.

Irrespective of our individual developments at CCE, we can see increasing capacities in Germany.The major bottleneck is and remains the availability of grid connections; local grid operators are becoming increasingly defensive regarding the operational mode of storage facilities. These limitations will impact the business case of future projects and potentially call into question the investment itself. Action on regulatory level is crucial to provide guidance to the many decentralized local grid operators in what ways BESS contributes positively to the grid efficiency. Further clarifications on the (in)famous BKZ (Baukostenzuschuss) and procedures for grid connection acceptance need to be implemented to provide the necessary certainty for BESS investors. 

Italy

Italy’s energy regulations adequately support the integration of renewable sources and energy storage. The country has been implementing policy measures to enhance energy efficiency and promote decarbonization through the national energy strategy. The capacity market introduced by the Italian government and future programs such as MACSE provide opportunities for flexible power generation technologies, including BESS. The market is expanding, but the potential for revenue generation is somewhat limited compared to Germany due to the less developed ancillary services market. Italy’s BESS market is in a transitional phase, with recent regulatory changes attracting increased investment and installation, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors.

Hear our new podcast! Solar Investors Guide #4: Long-term storage with iron flow technlogy

In Italy, we find a very competitive market and yet, a clear business case for BESS still needs to be defined.Following the recent tenders for the capacity market, in which three BESS projects were also awarded a contract, it will be important to continue adapting the business models. This will likely involve a combination of merchant, capacity market and MACSE models, which will need to find a balance in line with investors’ return expectations. CCE is developing a portfolio of over 1.3 GW of BESS projects across Italy. As in Germany, the grid connection is the main limiting factor here. Thanks to years of experience in the country and many secured sites in the PV sector, we can also convert these existing sites into BESS sites or add BESS to the PV sites. 

France

In France, we are at a relatively early stage and busy developing the business case; CCE France’s project pipeline currently comprises three projects. Due to the high base load capacity in the country, there is somewhat less volatility here, but green energy projects will continue to be added, which impacts grid stability.France’s regulatory framework encourages the use of storage through various programs. The Multiannual Energy Program (PPE) outlines the government’s objectives for renewable energy and storage integration.

France has also set targets for energy storage capacity by 2028, fostering investments in BESS. While the revenue potential has been positively impacted by recent policies, the overall market for energy storage remains less developed and mature if compared to other EU countries. It is developing however, particularly in large-scale BESS.  

The Netherlands

The Netherlands have implemented a progressive regulatory regime supporting energy storage systems. The country fosters investments through subsidy programs for innovative storage technologies and adjustments to grid fees concerning storage facilities. Revenue generation in a market with high volatility and limited liquidity shows high promises, particularly as more renewable energy sources come online. The Netherlands boast a mature market, characterized by many projects in the commercial sector. The integration of battery storage into existing energy infrastructures is highly favorable. 

In the Netherlands, we are in the process of realising the first medium-voltage storage system, which will be installed in addition to an existing PV system. With 80 GW of connection enquiries at grid operator TenneT, for large-scale storage systems, there are considerable delays in grid commitments and the market seems pretty much fully booked. We also expect further regulatory developments in connection with grid fees and currently focus our strategic approach of utilising existing grid connection capacity of PV systems for the expansion of our BESS capacity. 

Austria

In Austria, we expect improved regulatory frameworks for storage facilities to arrive with the establishment of the new government. This should provide more certainty for the business case, including streamlined grid fees. Albeit this time lag, the trend for BESS should be similar to that in Germany and we are currently securing promising sites for these projects.In general, Austria has actively supported renewable energy through subsidies and feed-in tariffs in the past and today the role of BESS is increasingly recognized. So, Austria’s BESS market is developing, today however, the number of installations in stand-alone systems is relatively limited. 

Romania

In Romania, the market is developing rapidly and is increasingly catching up, although the installed BESS capacities to date are manageable.What is interesting in this country market is that financing banks recommend the addition of a storage system for PV projects (to provide grid-supporting services and thus reduce project costs) and thus grant better conditions, although the profitability of the overall project may be lesser than a stand-alone PV system.An increase in stand-alone projects can be observed and I expect a considerable capacity increase in the next few years, also in view of the fact that the authorisation phases in Romania are shorter than in other EU countries.

See also: Central & Eastern Europe: Utility-scale storage market set to increase fivefold by 2030

Romania is gradually adopting policies that support renewable energy and storage systems. The government has implemented feed-in tariffs and other incentives to stimulate growth, although the regulatory framework remains less established compared to Western European countries. The revenue generation potential is limited compared to other countries discussed, but there are opportunities as market dynamics change. The recent launch of a EUR 150m modernization fund for BESS is further supporting that trend.

CCE

Structure of a stand-alone battery energy storage system (BESS).

Status Quo and Perspectives

The strategic value of a grid connection is very high in every country and presents the real bottleneck of the energy transition. This certainly applies to all countries.

European coordination would be desirable, particularly at grid operator level. The respective challenges and regulatory initiatives could be mirrored in an exchange of experiences. Defining why flexibility stands in the centre of making grids more resilient and how storage systems can contribute to grid neutrality and efficiency. Even if these are oftentimes local circumstances, there must be broader acceptance of why storage systems are so important for the expansion of our energy system.

See also: Optimizing energy storage – cost functions and strategies for long-term gains

Another general challenge is the transition of BESS stand-alone projects into so-called co- location between BESS and PV or wind. In addition to regulatory issues, this combination of technologies is highly complex in terms of structure and commercialization. Business cases need to be looked at individually and depending on the local parameters discussed in this article, a stand-alone project can oftentimes be more attractive than a co-located project.

In conclusion, the comparative analysis reveals varying levels of regulatory support, revenue potential, and market maturity. Germany and The Netherlands stand out as leading examples, Italy and France demonstrate growing interest and opportunity, while Austria and Romania are still developing their infrastructures and regulatory schemes. (Philipp Kraemer/hcn)

More about CCE





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The regulatory landscape for BESS in Europe is influenced by EU directives aimed at accelerating the shift to cleaner energy sources. Notable policies include the Clean Energy for All Europeans Package and the European Green Deal, which emphasize the uptake of energy storage technologies. However, each country adopts its own set of regulations and at different pace, which can significantly impact the attractiveness of BESS investments. These regulations influence areas such as:

–  Market access and participation rules

–  Tariffs and fees related to electricity consumption and storage

–  Incentives and support mechanisms for renewable energy and storage solutions

–  Safety and environmental standards for energy storage technologies 

Different revenue models & market maturity

Revenue generation for BESS is derived from various sources, including energy arbitrage, capacity markets, frequency regulation services, and ancillary services. The availability of these revenue streams varies by region based on market structures and regulations. Market maturity reflects the level of development of the energy market, the deployment of technology, and the investment climate for BESS projects. Mature markets tend to offer more robust regulatory support and established business models.

Also see: Large battery storage systems as new champions

In the following BESS business cases in selected countries 

Germany

Germany is the most developed market for CCE in continental Europe. It offers a dynamic environment, and we currently have one project in construction and three more in preparation with a total of approximately 50 MW. Our target is to grow our operational portfolio to around 250 MW, complemented with further assets on the medium voltage and high-voltage levels, in the course of 2026. The market is developing rapidly: CAPEX has fallen by around 30% since the beginning of the year, commercialization and financing strategies are maturing and therefore offering investors an ecosystem that supports growth.

Irrespective of our individual developments at CCE, we can see increasing capacities in Germany.The major bottleneck is and remains the availability of grid connections; local grid operators are becoming increasingly defensive regarding the operational mode of storage facilities. These limitations will impact the business case of future projects and potentially call into question the investment itself. Action on regulatory level is crucial to provide guidance to the many decentralized local grid operators in what ways BESS contributes positively to the grid efficiency. Further clarifications on the (in)famous BKZ (Baukostenzuschuss) and procedures for grid connection acceptance need to be implemented to provide the necessary certainty for BESS investors. 

Italy

Italy’s energy regulations adequately support the integration of renewable sources and energy storage. The country has been implementing policy measures to enhance energy efficiency and promote decarbonization through the national energy strategy. The capacity market introduced by the Italian government and future programs such as MACSE provide opportunities for flexible power generation technologies, including BESS. The market is expanding, but the potential for revenue generation is somewhat limited compared to Germany due to the less developed ancillary services market. Italy’s BESS market is in a transitional phase, with recent regulatory changes attracting increased investment and installation, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors.

Hear our new podcast! Solar Investors Guide #4: Long-term storage with iron flow technlogy

In Italy, we find a very competitive market and yet, a clear business case for BESS still needs to be defined.Following the recent tenders for the capacity market, in which three BESS projects were also awarded a contract, it will be important to continue adapting the business models. This will likely involve a combination of merchant, capacity market and MACSE models, which will need to find a balance in line with investors’ return expectations. CCE is developing a portfolio of over 1.3 GW of BESS projects across Italy. As in Germany, the grid connection is the main limiting factor here. Thanks to years of experience in the country and many secured sites in the PV sector, we can also convert these existing sites into BESS sites or add BESS to the PV sites. 

France

In France, we are at a relatively early stage and busy developing the business case; CCE France’s project pipeline currently comprises three projects. Due to the high base load capacity in the country, there is somewhat less volatility here, but green energy projects will continue to be added, which impacts grid stability.France’s regulatory framework encourages the use of storage through various programs. The Multiannual Energy Program (PPE) outlines the government’s objectives for renewable energy and storage integration.

France has also set targets for energy storage capacity by 2028, fostering investments in BESS. While the revenue potential has been positively impacted by recent policies, the overall market for energy storage remains less developed and mature if compared to other EU countries. It is developing however, particularly in large-scale BESS.  

The Netherlands

The Netherlands have implemented a progressive regulatory regime supporting energy storage systems. The country fosters investments through subsidy programs for innovative storage technologies and adjustments to grid fees concerning storage facilities. Revenue generation in a market with high volatility and limited liquidity shows high promises, particularly as more renewable energy sources come online. The Netherlands boast a mature market, characterized by many projects in the commercial sector. The integration of battery storage into existing energy infrastructures is highly favorable. 

In the Netherlands, we are in the process of realising the first medium-voltage storage system, which will be installed in addition to an existing PV system. With 80 GW of connection enquiries at grid operator TenneT, for large-scale storage systems, there are considerable delays in grid commitments and the market seems pretty much fully booked. We also expect further regulatory developments in connection with grid fees and currently focus our strategic approach of utilising existing grid connection capacity of PV systems for the expansion of our BESS capacity. 

Austria

In Austria, we expect improved regulatory frameworks for storage facilities to arrive with the establishment of the new government. This should provide more certainty for the business case, including streamlined grid fees. Albeit this time lag, the trend for BESS should be similar to that in Germany and we are currently securing promising sites for these projects.In general, Austria has actively supported renewable energy through subsidies and feed-in tariffs in the past and today the role of BESS is increasingly recognized. So, Austria’s BESS market is developing, today however, the number of installations in stand-alone systems is relatively limited. 

Romania

In Romania, the market is developing rapidly and is increasingly catching up, although the installed BESS capacities to date are manageable.What is interesting in this country market is that financing banks recommend the addition of a storage system for PV projects (to provide grid-supporting services and thus reduce project costs) and thus grant better conditions, although the profitability of the overall project may be lesser than a stand-alone PV system.An increase in stand-alone projects can be observed and I expect a considerable capacity increase in the next few years, also in view of the fact that the authorisation phases in Romania are shorter than in other EU countries.

See also: Central & Eastern Europe: Utility-scale storage market set to increase fivefold by 2030

Romania is gradually adopting policies that support renewable energy and storage systems. The government has implemented feed-in tariffs and other incentives to stimulate growth, although the regulatory framework remains less established compared to Western European countries. The revenue generation potential is limited compared to other countries discussed, but there are opportunities as market dynamics change. The recent launch of a EUR 150m modernization fund for BESS is further supporting that trend.

CCE

Structure of a stand-alone battery energy storage system (BESS).

Status Quo and Perspectives

The strategic value of a grid connection is very high in every country and presents the real bottleneck of the energy transition. This certainly applies to all countries.

European coordination would be desirable, particularly at grid operator level. The respective challenges and regulatory initiatives could be mirrored in an exchange of experiences. Defining why flexibility stands in the centre of making grids more resilient and how storage systems can contribute to grid neutrality and efficiency. Even if these are oftentimes local circumstances, there must be broader acceptance of why storage systems are so important for the expansion of our energy system.

See also: Optimizing energy storage – cost functions and strategies for long-term gains

Another general challenge is the transition of BESS stand-alone projects into so-called co- location between BESS and PV or wind. In addition to regulatory issues, this combination of technologies is highly complex in terms of structure and commercialization. Business cases need to be looked at individually and depending on the local parameters discussed in this article, a stand-alone project can oftentimes be more attractive than a co-located project.

In conclusion, the comparative analysis reveals varying levels of regulatory support, revenue potential, and market maturity. Germany and The Netherlands stand out as leading examples, Italy and France demonstrate growing interest and opportunity, while Austria and Romania are still developing their infrastructures and regulatory schemes. (Philipp Kraemer/hcn)

More about CCE





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The industry association PV Austria has summarised this year’s subsidies for photovoltaic systems. The result: The Austrian Settlement Centre for Green Electricity (Oemag) alone has approved investment subsidies for systems with a total output of over two gigawatts for this year. This corresponds to the total solar capacity added in the past three years, according to the association.

Systems must now actually be built

PV Austria attributes the enormous growth to the subsidies provided by the Renewable Energy Expansion Act (EAG), which came into force in 2022. “This is a good example of what is possible with commitment and will,” emphasises Vera Immitzer, Managing Director of PV Austria. The balance sheet of the subsidy processing centre is positive.

See also: Vertical agri-PV plant wins Austrian Solar Prize 2023

It remains to be seen whether this record influx will remain on paper for the time being or whether these systems will actually be built. In practice, there are also other hurdles to overcome than obtaining a subsidy. In addition to functioning financial support, we need strong grids, clarity regarding grid access and a modern E-Economy Act in order to be able to utilise the diversity of technologies,” emphasises the PV Austria boss.

248 of 700 megawatts subsidised

However, the problem child is not rooftop systems, but the expansion of photovoltaics on open spaces. Since this year, Vienna has been supporting the construction of solar parks through tenders and a market premium. Here, participation in the auctions fell far short of the potential. Only projects with a total output of 248 megawatts took part in the four tender rounds. In contrast, the tender volume totalled 700 megawatts.

Only 35 per cent of the funds called up

This means that only 35 per cent of the eligible output was applied for. According to the association, there are several reasons for this. “The unjustified 25 per cent discount for ground-mounted systems, the increased investment costs and the simple lack of approvals from the federal states and municipalities are reasons why the funding was not applied for in the tender,” summarised Vera Immitzer.

Open spaces are necessary

The association is therefore calling for the subsidy to be adapted to reality. “Even though the rooftop systems segment has reached a good level, Austria also needs larger ground-mounted projects that produce affordable electricity for the economy,” explains Immitzer, pointing out that solar output must increase tenfold by 2040. This will not be possible with roof systems alone in this short time.

Also interesting: Fronius doubles production capacity for inverters

The association is therefore proposing an increase in the maximum value for bids. In addition, the subsidies not utilised this year should be postponed until next year. Vera Immitzer appeals to the responsible ministries in Vienna to bear this in mind when drawing up the tender conditions for 2024. She also criticises the long time until the new auction conditions are published. After all, a new year begins in a few weeks and the regulations have still not been finalised. (su/mfo)





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It is a project that farmer Johann Deix planned carefully. He started producing raspberries and blackberries in 2018. However, the berries don’t like it hot or wet. At the same time, he learned from a study by Wageningen University in the Netherlands that the fruit can tolerate up to 40 per cent shade without complaint.

To stay up to date on all the new developments in the solar industry and solar agriculture, sign up to our FREE NEWSLETTER NOW!

The Dutch scientists also found that the fruit grows more slowly when there is more shade. This is an advantage for the farmer. He can extend his harvest by allowing some of the berries to grow in the sun and others in the shade.

Harvest season extended

These arguments persuaded Johann Deix to cover part of his plantation with semi-transparent solar modules with 35 per cent shading. The other parts have remained under the previous foil tunnels. This allows him to extend the harvest season and enjoy other benefits of the agri-PV system.

See also: Mobile agri-PV system protects young vines

The solar modules protect the berries from heavy rain, hail and overheating. The system also requires less work than the foil tunnels, which have to be replaced regularly. ‘It also gets really hot in the 1,800 metres of foil tunnel in summer,’ explains Johann Deix. This is not good for the raspberries, nor for the farmer and his employees.

Solar power for self-consumption

The solar system also supplies a lot of electricity, which the farmer can consume directly on site. This is because the farmer needs around 120,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year to cool the harvested berries. The new solar system with its 499 kilowatts of power will supply around four and a half times as much electricity.

Dual use of land: Download our Special Edition on agri-PV

The farmer shares the rest of the electricity with his neighbours. Matthias Zawichowski, manager of the climate and energy model region (KEM) Elsbeere Wienerwald, supported Johann Deix with the project development and is organising a local renewable energy community around the plant.

New financing idea

The farmer also took an unusual approach to financing. He gave anyone who wanted to the opportunity to participate. The citizen participation runs via so-called ‘solar building blocks’. This means that for a one-off payment of 360 euros, supporters receive a total of 36 bottles of raspberry Prosecco and six kilograms of raspberries over three years. ‘As well as a clear conscience,’ emphasises Matthias Zawichowski. The system is also subsidised via a market premium in accordance with the Austrian Renewable Energy Expansion Act.

Also interesting: Let the show begin! Sonnenkraft installs PV on listed theatre in Austria

Solar openings at Energy Decentral

You will also find solutions like this at this year’s Energy Decentral. Photovoltaics will take centre stage at the trade fair dedicated to the decentralised supply of renewable energy to farms. As part of the solar offensive spotlight, farmers and suppliers of solar systems and storage units will come into direct contact with each other. Find out more about the solar offensive here. (su/mfo)





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The system provider Sonnenkraft, based in St. Veit an der Glan in southern Austria, has implemented a special project in the Carinthian capital Klagenfurt: a photovoltaic system on the municipal theatre. “With the implementation of this strategically important project for the Klagenfurt Municipal Theatre, we, as a leading cultural institution, are taking an important step towards sustainable management,” explains Matthias Walter, Commercial Director of the theatre. The artistic director of the municipal theatre adds: “In these times of climate crisis, which cannot be denied, we have to rethink. How can we treat this world – and we only have one – with care? The municipal theatre is setting a good example with its solar power photovoltaic system.”

Do you want to keep track of the latest developments relating to your investment in solar systems? Then subscribe to our free investor newsletter.

The first thoughts about installing the solar system came in 2023, when the more than 1,900 lamps and lights in and around the theatre were completely converted to LED technology. However, as the theatre building is a listed building, this was not so easy.

Installing invisible from street level

However, after consultation with the Federal Monuments Office and other relevant authorities, the installers from Sonnenkraft were able to mount modules on the flat roof of the new building. However, it had to be ensured that the modules could not be seen from the street. If they are visible, they must not detract from the overall appearance of the building.

See also: Combining a landmark historic building with photovoltaics

Installed on a copper seam

Malte Forstat

The modules were therefore installed in such a way that they form a visual unit with the copper roof below. To do this, the fitters installed them parallel to the roof on a rail system that was attached to the seams of the copper roof. In this way, the craftsmen were able to install a total of 185 panels with a total output of 75 kilowatts on the 350 square metre roof.

60 megawatt hours of solar power for culture

The municipal theatre uses almost all of the electricity generated itself. Due to its less than perfect orientation, the system supplies around 60,000 kilowatt hours of solar power every year. With its stage, workshops and offices, the theatre requires around 520,000 kilowatt hours of electricity. Thanks to the innovative cooperation with Sonnenkraft, the renowned theatre can increase its energy efficiency and significantly reduce its operating costs,” emphasises Reinhard Pasterk, Technical Managing Director of Sonnenkraft.

Also interesting: Pioneering commercial PV rooftop installation in Austria

System is sponsored

The theatre did not have to put up any money of its own. This is because Sonnenkraft sponsored the new generator on the roof. “This innovative sponsorship creates a future-oriented partnership that not only promotes sustainable energy solutions, but also supports cultural diversity and focuses on new creative impulses and local value creation,” says Dajana Scherr, Head of Marketing at Sonnenkraft. (su/mfo)





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It is a project that farmer Johann Deix planned carefully. He started producing raspberries and blackberries in 2018. However, the berries don’t like it hot or wet. At the same time, he learned from a study by Wageningen University in the Netherlands that the fruit can tolerate up to 40 per cent shade without complaint.

To stay up to date on all the new developments in the solar industry and solar agriculture, sign up to our FREE NEWSLETTER NOW!

The Dutch scientists also found that the fruit grows more slowly when there is more shade. This is an advantage for the farmer. He can extend his harvest by allowing some of the berries to grow in the sun and others in the shade.

Harvest season extended

These arguments persuaded Johann Deix to cover part of his plantation with semi-transparent solar modules with 35 per cent shading. The other parts have remained under the previous foil tunnels. This allows him to extend the harvest season and enjoy other benefits of the agri-PV system.

See also: Mobile agri-PV system protects young vines

The solar modules protect the berries from heavy rain, hail and overheating. The system also requires less work than the foil tunnels, which have to be replaced regularly. ‘It also gets really hot in the 1,800 metres of foil tunnel in summer,’ explains Johann Deix. This is not good for the raspberries, nor for the farmer and his employees.

Solar power for self-consumption

The solar system also supplies a lot of electricity, which the farmer can consume directly on site. This is because the farmer needs around 120,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year to cool the harvested berries. The new solar system with its 499 kilowatts of power will supply around four and a half times as much electricity.

Dual use of land: Download our Special Edition on agri-PV

The farmer shares the rest of the electricity with his neighbours. Matthias Zawichowski, manager of the climate and energy model region (KEM) Elsbeere Wienerwald, supported Johann Deix with the project development and is organising a local renewable energy community around the plant.

New financing idea

The farmer also took an unusual approach to financing. He gave anyone who wanted to the opportunity to participate. The citizen participation runs via so-called ‘solar building blocks’. This means that for a one-off payment of 360 euros, supporters receive a total of 36 bottles of raspberry Prosecco and six kilograms of raspberries over three years. ‘As well as a clear conscience,’ emphasises Matthias Zawichowski. The system is also subsidised via a market premium in accordance with the Austrian Renewable Energy Expansion Act.

Also interesting: Let the show begin! Sonnenkraft installs PV on listed theatre in Austria

Solar openings at Energy Decentral

You will also find solutions like this at this year’s Energy Decentral. Photovoltaics will take centre stage at the trade fair dedicated to the decentralised supply of renewable energy to farms. As part of the solar offensive spotlight, farmers and suppliers of solar systems and storage units will come into direct contact with each other. Find out more about the solar offensive here. (su/mfo)





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