Energiequelle Collaborates with Finnish Universities for Innovative Research Project Uniting Solar Energy and Agriculture

In a pioneering collaboration, the University of Helsinki, Turku University of Applied Sciences, and renewable energy project planning company Energiequelle are embarking on a groundbreaking research project to explore the synergy between solar energy and agriculture in Nordic conditions. This innovative initiative aims to develop an optimal operating model for the integration of solar modules on cultivated land.

Traditionally, solar panels are installed on rooftops, but in this agrivoltaic project, the panels will share space with agricultural activities on fields and berry farms. This coexistence allows for the simultaneous use of land for both farming and solar energy generation without displacing existing forests or arable land. The project aims to address challenges in renewable energy expansion, efficient land utilization, and the preservation of local agriculture.

Karl Schultheis, Head of New Business Development at Energiequelle in Finland, emphasizes the goal of creating a sustainable operating model where renewable energies and agriculture mutually support and strengthen each other. He envisions a scenario where solar energy helps mitigate economic losses for farmers due to extreme weather events.

The project also explores the development of environmentally friendly racks for solar modules and investigates the potential automation of farm activities, such as crop irrigation. The research extends to the creation of microclimates, akin to greenhouses, which could enhance plant growth in Nordic conditions and increase yields, thereby reducing dependence on food imports.

Mika Suontlahti, a participant writing his thesis at Turku University of Applied Sciences, expresses optimism about the potential benefits for agriculture, citing the possibility of solar panels creating microclimates that mimic different environments.

Antti Lajunen, the project leader at the University of Helsinki, emphasizes the importance of an optimized operating model for Finnish conditions that aligns with sustainability and climate protection goals. He sees solar energy as a rapidly growing form of energy production globally and in Finland, contributing to sustainable land use and combatting biodiversity loss and deforestation.

While the possibility of establishing photovoltaic pilot plants with plantations exists as early as next year, the final location and timetable remain open. This initial phase serves as a preparatory project for larger field trials and more in-depth research.

Energiequelle, active in the Finnish market since 2015, has played a significant role in connecting five wind farms to the grid and boasts a pipeline of over 2,500 MW in wind and solar projects. With offices in Helsinki and Vaasa, the company continues to drive the expansion of renewable energies in Finland with a dedicated team of almost 40 employees.