May 30, 2024 marks an important date for agriculture and renewable energy in France. Jacques and Nathalie Etchélécu, owners of the Etchélécu Farm in Sames, have inaugurated an innovative agrivoltaic installation which combines the cultivation of strawberries with the production of solar energy. This project, developed by Insolight, uses semi-transparent photovoltaic panels and dynamic protective screens to optimize agricultural and energy production.
The concept of agrivoltaism
Agrivoltaism is an innovative agricultural practice that integrates photovoltaic technologies into agricultural operations. This method allows renewable energy to be produced while growing plants, thereby optimizing land use. Semi-transparent solar panels allow light to pass through, promoting photosynthesis in the plants below, while generating electricity.
Advantages of agrivoltaism :
- Space optimization : Combination of food and energy production on the same surface area.
- Improving agricultural resilience : Protection of crops against extreme climatic conditions.
- Renewable energy production : Reduction of the carbon footprint of the agricultural operation.
Details of the project at Ferme Etchélécu
The Etchélecu Farm covers 3,000 square meters and is equipped with semi-transparent photovoltaic panels, capable of producing 190 kW of electricity, or around 260 MWh per year, enough to power 50 homes. In addition to solar energy, dynamic protective screens adjust shading according to the plants’ needs, improving growing conditions for the 15,000 strawberry plants.
Installation features :
- Surface : 3,000 square meters
- Installed capacity : 190 kW
- Annual production : 260 MWh
- Number of strawberry plants : 15,000
Benefits for Ferme Etchélécu
Jacques and Nathalie Etchélécu have seen several benefits from this installation. In addition to producing energy for self-consumption and selling surpluses to the grid, they benefit from two additional months of strawberry production per year. Harvesting rainwater for irrigation also reduces their water consumption, contributing to more sustainable resource management.
Benefits for the farm :
- Extension of the growing season : Two additional months of annual production.
- Sustainable water management : Harvesting rainwater for irrigation.
- Renewable energy : Self-consumption and selling surpluses.
Testimonials from project stakeholders
Mathieu Ackermann, Technical Director of Insolight : “We are delighted to present this agrivoltaic installation. By combining solar technology with agriculture, we offer producers the opportunity to contribute to the energy transition and sustainable agriculture, while meeting their energy needs.”
Jacques and Nathalie Etchélécu, owners of Ferme Etchélécu : “Faced with a decrease in production caused by bad weather, we looked for a solution. Insolight provided us with technical and administrative support, as well as real values. Their solution allows us to extend the production of our strawberries, to collect rainwater for irrigation and to produce electricity for our consumption and the sale of surpluses.”
Environmental and economic impact
This agrivoltaic installation represents a significant step forward in the integration of renewable energies and sustainable agricultural practices. By combining solar technology with food production, it helps farmers become more resilient to climate change while promoting more sustainable and energy-efficient agriculture.
Environmental impact :
- Reduction of carbon footprint : Production of clean and renewable energy.
- Resource Conservation : Sustainable water management and protection against bad weather.
Economic impact :
- Increased income : Sale of surplus electricity and extension of the growing season.
- Cost reduction : Reduction in water and energy consumption.
Future outlook
The success of this installation could inspire other farmers to adopt agrivoltaic practices. With the support of innovative technologies and enabling policies, agrivoltaism has the potential to transform agriculture in Europe and beyond, making farms more sustainable and resilient in the face of environmental and economic challenges.
Future development :
- Expansion of agrivoltaism : Increased adoption of similar technologies on other farms.
- Continuous innovation : Improvement in photovoltaic panel and shade management technologies.
- Political and financial support : Favorable policies and subsidies to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices.
The agrivoltaic installation at Ferme Etchélécu is a remarkable example of innovation in sustainable agriculture. By integrating semi-transparent photovoltaic panels and dynamic protective screens, this farm succeeds in producing both renewable energy and high-quality strawberries for gastronomy. This pioneering project illustrates the benefits of agrivoltaism and offers a promising path for the future of agriculture and renewable energy.