agrivoltaics
/ˌæɡriˌvoʊlˈteɪɪks/
Definition
The practice of using the same plot of land for both solar energy production and agricultural activities simultaneously.
Etymology
The term is a portmanteau derived from 'agriculture,' referring to farming, and 'photovoltaics,' referring to the conversion of light into electricity. It was coined to describe the modern integration of energy-harvesting solar panels within agricultural landscapes.
In the news
The article cites agrivoltaics as a scalable solution for the energy transition because it enables responsible land use by allowing dual-purpose solar installations on farmland. This approach helps resolve the tension between the need for renewable energy and the preservation of productive agricultural land.
Creating a Renewable Energy Future
Read the full article ↗The Nature Conservancy