In **Italy**, more than 60% of **ground-mounted photovoltaic projects** are linked to **agrovoltaics**, a solution that combines **solar energy generation with agricultural activities**.
This growth has been driven by public utility companies that see these projects as a **sustainable opportunity** to optimize the use of **land and energy**.
PVcase PV Design Platform
The Lithuanian company PVcase has played a key role in the development of photovoltaic projects linked to **agriculture in Italy**.
Agrovoltaics offers a tool to design **photovoltaic systems** adapted to agricultural needs. Among its capabilities are:
- Agricultural parameters: Inclusion of data such as crop height to tailor the system design.
- Cost optimization: Precision in the materials list to reduce expenses.
- Land study: Detailed modeling considering morphology and legal constraints.
Highlighted Projects and Standardization
PVcase is working on standardizing agrovoltaic projects, addressing specific demands from **key markets such as Italy and Germany**.
Additionally, they are developing functions to incorporate elements like shading objects and **energy storage-related technologies** (BESS).
Growth in Interest for Agrovoltaic Projects
During the KEY fair in Rimini, a significant increase in interest in these projects was reported. **Italian companies** are working on connection requests and even advancing in installations, demonstrating their **commitment to agrovoltaics** as a strategic solution in the energy transition.
PVcase expects to launch its complete package with these new capabilities by the end of the year, establishing itself as a leader in the development of **agrovoltaic technologies in Europe**.
Can Crops Grow Better Under Solar Panels?
This new technique allows for **increased food production**, while also improving the efficiency of **land use**, enabling photovoltaic energy and agriculture to share land without competing for the same space.
The electricity generated by solar panels increases the economic value of **agrovoltaic operations** by over 30%.
Generally, **solar panels** are installed with fixed support systems to elevate them between two and five meters above the cultivation land and are set at a 30-degree angle, providing shade and offering protection against **weather conditions**.
Additionally, it is very beneficial for **agricultural soil** as it reduces evaporation and also **lowers greenhouse gas emissions**.
The main benefit of agrovoltaics is the dual use of land for agriculture and energy, alleviating pressure on **ecosystems** and biodiversity.
*Information sourced from pv magazine
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