Simulation and Optimisation of AgriPVLayouts in Austria: A Case Study onEnergy, Shading and Crop Yield

Abstract

AgriPV investigates the dual use of the same area for agricultural cultivation and electricity generation where PV modules are installed either above or between the plants to increase the land-use efficiency. This thesis examines how AgriPV influences land-use efficiency. The impact of row spacing, module tilt and system orientation (fixed-tilt south-facing or single-axis eastwest tracking) on the electricity yield and crop yield is analysed. This study focuses only on inter-row systems, where modules are arranged in rows with crops cultivated in between. Winter wheat, a crop widely cultivated in Upper Austria, was chosen as an example. A total of 56 different AgriPV layouts were analysed. The electricity yield, the available irradiation and the crop yield were calculated using established simulation models and evaluated using the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER). The results show that smaller row spacing results in the highest PV yield per occupied ground area, while larger spacing and steeper tilt angles increase the crop yield. The highest specific PV yield was achieved by the tracking variant with 6 m row spacing. The best agricultural result was obtained with a 60° tilt and 12 m row spacing, with a yield reduction of only 11 % compared to an unshaded field. The lowest crop yields were recorded by the tracking variants. All layouts investigated achieved an LER greater than 1, which means they use the area more efficiently than monocultures. The design with a 60° tilt and 6 m row spacing achieved the highest area efficiency, with an LER of 1.43. The study demonstrates that AgriPV can support the expansion of photovoltaics in Austria without significantly reducing agricultural yields. With careful choice of row spacing, tilt and orientation, a balanced use of land for energy and food production is possible.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English
Supervisor	Angelika Renate Basch (Supervisor)