New Mobile Agrivoltaik facility at the Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences started

New Mobile Agrivoltaik facility at the Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences started

A look at mobile agrivoltaics: innovation for agriculture

(7.8.2024) The Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences recently put the mobile agrivoltaic system "Viticult PV Mobil" into operation from SBP Sonne GmbH. This exciting development was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and aims to cope with the challenges in wine cultivation under the conditions of climate change. In particular, the system should combine the cultivation of wine plants with the extraction of solar energy on agricultural areas.

partnership for sustainable solutions

The Geisenheim University (HGU), the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE and SBP Sonne GmbH worked closely together for this pilot project. The vision for agrivoltaics was initiated by Fraunhofer ISE, which is known as a pioneer in the combination of agriculture and solar energy. SBP Sonne GmbH brings its international experience in technical concept development, while the HGU supports its knowledge in viticulture and practice -oriented studies.

Advantages of Agri-Photovoltaic

An outstanding feature of the “Viticult PV Mobil” system is its flexibility: It can be installed on newly planted vineyards without extensive design measures. This is particularly important because new plantings often have difficulty thriving in times of increasing drought. The mobile ability of this system enables plant protection to improve in a changing climate and at the same time maximize solar use.

meaning for the future of agriculture

The project is part of a larger composite project that is dedicated to energy efficiency and climate protection. In particular, the BMBF funding measure “SME innovative” supports the development of integrative solutions for climate silence and sustainable cultural landscapes. The implementation of such systems could not only be important for viticulture, but also for other agricultural sectors.

Andreas Müller, Managing Director of SBP Sonne GmbH, explains: "We are convinced that the combination of agriculture and photovoltaics can make a significant contribution to sustainability. Our technology offers farmers the opportunity to secure their earnings in times of climate change."

conclusion: the way to sustainable agricultural systems

The introduction of the mobile agrivoltaic system at the Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences is an important step towards more sustainable agriculture. In a world that is increasingly suffering from climatic challenges, this project shows an innovative way of how agricultural practices and renewable energies can go hand in hand. Interest in such solutions is expected to continue to grow, while communities are looking for effective ways to adapt to climate change.

For more details and information, interested parties can inquire directly from SBP Sonne GmbH.