Agriculture is never one-size-fits-all, and neither are the demands it places on solar. Every farm, field and crop comes with its own set of challenges, pushing agri-PV solutions to be as adaptable as the land itself. Mounting system manufacturers are rising to the occasion, rethinking their designs to deliver flexibility and technical resilience where it matters most – from the ground up.
The Tuniberg, a limestone ridge in the Breisgau region, stands as a fitting example. With Freiburg visible on the horizon, these slopes have a rich tradition of viticulture. Burgundy grape varieties flourish here, benefiting from the limestone’s ability to retain water and the plentiful sunshine in the region.
High-quality wine in a changing climate
Yet climate change is confronting winegrowers with new and complex challenges. In response, the Zimmermann PV-Steel Group has developed a system that shelters vines beneath solar modules, protecting them from scorching sun, hail, and late spring frosts. These modules also help preserve soil moisture and generate electricity, opening up a new revenue stream for Tuniberg’s winemakers.
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The benefits are tangible. “Initial results show that agri-PV systems require significantly less crop protection, while yields remain consistent,” says Dionys Lämmle, Project Manager at Zimmermann PV-Steel Group. “Quality is also maintained, as Oechsle readings confirm, showing that sugar levels and grape ripeness are comparable to conventional cultivation. Elevated photovoltaic systems enable winegrowers to offset climate risks without compromising yield or quality.”
Cultivating a favourable microclimate
Zimmermann’s experience in agri-PV extends to early elevated systems for berry cultivation in the Netherlands. There, the modules double as hail protection, replacing plastic film covers. The advantage is clear: these systems last over 20 years, a marked improvement over the regular and expensive replacement of conventional films.
A showcase project in Lower Austria demonstrates this approach at scale. More than 17,000 square metres of blueberries, raspberries and blackberries now flourish beneath a canopy of semitransparent modules. The mounting structure, specifically tailored for berry crops, provides the same protection from hail, frost and sunlight as seen in Tuniberg project in the southeast of Germany.
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Zimmermann has integrated wire guidance to simplify the training of berry bushes, while continuous clamps ensure a stable covering. “The system creates a favourable microclimate for both plants and workers, and supports full agricultural use – including mechanised operations,” Lämmle notes.enable precise control of light transmission for optimal plant growth, while robust construction ensures long-term durability.
Cattle and solar trackers – shared pastures
Rotating trackers for optimal land use Zimmermann’s portfolio goes beyond fruit and vines. The company offers specialised tracker systems for arable land, grassland and pasture. A recent installation on cattle pasture demonstrates how module rows can be arranged to allow cows unrestricted movement beneath the panels.
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The shade cast by the modules shifts with the sun, supporting healthy grass growth. The elevated design, generous row spacing and the ability to rotate trackers to a 90-degree position ensure the land remains accessible for farm machinery. For grazing livestock, the modules provide shelter from heat and heavy rain. Trackers also maximise solar yield and allow for targeted shading during extreme weather, as well as more flexible land management.
You can read the full article in our special feature on photovoltaics in agriculture. This article explores many more opportunities for dual use of agricultural land. You can download the special „Solar technology for farmers – pathways to dual harvest“ here free of charge. (su)
