In this way, solar systems could reduce food prices

As part of the energy transition, more and more solar parks are starting up. But agriculture could benefit even more. Because solar systems not only have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions, but also to lower food prices.

The expansion of renewable energies continues. While wind turbines often remain the method of choice in northern Germany, solar systems are predominantly used in southern Germany. But in addition to the production of sustainable energy, these could bring other benefits.

Because solar panels may be particularly suitable for agriculture. Because many useful plants sometimes grow better in the shade than when they are exposed to direct sunlight. Canada is now taking advantage of this and combining both advantages.

Solar systems in agriculture can reduce food prices

The reasons for this lie in the fact that solar systems fulfill several protective functions for plants. Because when the panels are above them, their own small microclimate is created. Because evaporating water collects on the underside of the panel, the humidity in the air is higher for plants.

At the same time, the solar panels also protect the plants from wind, hail and soil erosion. Potatoes, lettuce, corn, tomatoes and wheat benefit from all these advantages. In the meantime, the idea could also find supporters in this country. Because climate change is causing ever lower agricultural yields.

Significantly fewer emissions than with classic agriculture

Compared to fields without solar systems, agriculture could also do better when it comes to climate protection. Companies that make use of the so-called agrivoltaic principle emit 69.3 percent less greenhouse gases and require 82.9 percent less fossil fuels.

The vegetables mentioned are not the end of the story. Because broccoli, celery, peppers and spinach also grow more effectively on covered fields than in direct sunlight. Nevertheless, such a type of cultivation requires a higher initial investment, after all, the costs for solar systems should not be underestimated.

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