05/29/2025
Germany is now farming electricity. Literally. Engineers and scientists at Fraunhofer ISE are teaming up with VOEN Vöhringer GmbH to take solar energy to the next level, by mounting solar panels right above crops.
It’s called agrivoltaics, and it's kind of genius. In one pilot site in Fronreute, cherry orchards now sit under elevated solar canopies that generate up to 420 kilowatts per hectare while keeping the fruit cool, protected from UV rays, hail, and heavy rain.
The best part is that the shade helps reduce irrigation, improves crop quality, and uses existing greenhouse setups, saving big on construction and emissions. Smart software ensures both crops and energy production thrive without stepping on each other's toes.
Early results show yields are just as good, if not better. This dual-harvest approach is catching on fast across Europe and Asia, with Germany and Japan leading the charge.
