To save on costs in agriculture, solar energy is used to meet energy demand. Today, the agriculture and irrigation sectors they are already concentrating 25% of photovoltaic solar power plants for self-consumption that are rising in Spain.
Even with the past sun tax, the increase in the use of solar energy in this sector is encouraging. These data are collected by the Spanish Photovoltaic Union (UNEF) and the National Federation of Irrigation Communities (FENACORE).
More solar energy in the agricultural sector
The main reason why solar energy is increasingly being developed in the agricultural sector is the increase in electricity billsOver the past eight years, electricity prices have increased exponentially, in some cases by as much as 1000%, prompting farmers to seek alternative energy sources.
As a result, Up to 25 megawatts have been installed in the last three years. in solar plants within the agricultural sector in Spain. These installations allow irrigators to save up to 60% in electricity once the investment in solar panels is amortized.
The cost of installing these systems has decreased significantly in recent years. Companies are taking advantage of European structural funds to offer subsidies that cover up to 65% of initial costsThis has made it easier for many farmers to dare to invest in solar energy.
Self-consumption systems: solar pumping and irrigation
El solar pumping This is one of the most common applications of solar energy on farms. This system allows the energy captured by solar panels to be used to power water pumps that transport water to irrigation systems. This is essential in the warmer months, where the most intensive irrigation coincides with the hours of greatest sunshine, allowing solar energy to power the pumps without additional costs.
In addition, this system is also helping to preserve more waterBy providing partial shade to crops and irrigation ponds, solar panels help maintain lower temperatures and reduce evaporation, which in turn minimizes the loss of water resources.
Cost of a solar energy project for irrigation
The cost of a solar energy project for irrigation varies depending on the land area, weather conditions, the amount of water needed and the specifications of the photovoltaic system. Generally speaking, a solar irrigation system can cost between 20.000 and 50.000 eurosThese costs include the installation of solar panels, inverters, batteries, controllers and water pumps.
It is important to note that although the initial cost may seem high, the long-term benefits are significant. The reduction in energy costs and the decrease in dependence on fossil fuels means that the investment pays for itself within a reasonable period of time. There are also support and financing programs that facilitate the adoption of solar energy in agriculture, such as the Rural Development Programme of the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
Benefits of solar self-consumption in agriculture
1. Sustainability and reduction of carbon footprint: By using solar energy, dependence on fossil fuels is reduced, which in turn reduces CO2 emissions and the carbon footprint of farms.
2. Savings in energy costs: One of the most notable benefits is the economic savings. Farmers can significantly reduce their energy costs, especially during peak seasons.
3. Terrain optimization: By installing solar panels in areas not suitable for farming, farmers can make better use of their land and, in some cases, also use the area under the panels for livestock grazing.
4. Storage capacity: A crucial aspect of solar energy is the possibility of storing energy in solar batteries, allowing it to be used at night or on cloudy days. This storage ensures that irrigation systems, lighting and other equipment continue to operate without interruption.
Agrovoltaic energy: an alliance for sustainability
La agrovoltaic energy is one of the most innovative solutions in the agricultural sector. It consists of installing solar panels on crop land, creating a synergy that benefits both agricultural production and solar energy generation. These panels provide partial shade that protects crops from extreme temperatures and reduces water evaporation, which improves agricultural yield.
Agrovoltaic systems allow for the maximization of land use, rather than competing for it. In addition, through evapotranspiration from plants, a suitable temperature is maintained so that solar panels can work more efficiently.
There are two main types of installations in the agrovoltaic field:
- Fixed support systems: Placed several metres above the crop, they allow agricultural machinery to access it without problems.
- Solar greenhouses: Where greenhouse roofs are replaced by solar generating plants that harness the sun's energy.
In modern agriculture, incorporating solar energy is not only a step towards sustainability, but also an optimal strategy to reduce costs and increase crop efficiency.
The future of solar energy looks bright and farmers who have already adopted this resource are seeing improvements in both their profitability and their environmental footprint.