Professional paper

https://doi.org/10.31727/gzb.48.5.9

Agrivoltaics in Fruit Production: A Comprehensive Review

Blaž Germšek orcid.org/0009-0004-3832-1632 ; Kmetijski inštitut Slovenije, Ljubljana, Slovenija *
Žan Mongus orcid.org/0009-0002-5624-826X ; Kmetijski inštitut Slovenije, Ljubljana, Slovenija
Tomaž Poje ; Kmetijski inštitut Slovenije, Ljubljana, Slovenija
Tomi Medved orcid.org/0000-0002-4238-7085 ; , Inovacijsko Razvojni Inštitut Univerze v Ljubljani, Ljubljana, Slovenija
Matej Pečjak ; , Inovacijsko Razvojni Inštitut Univerze v Ljubljani, Ljubljana, Slovenija
Jernej Zupančić ; , Inovacijsko Razvojni Inštitut Univerze v Ljubljani, Ljubljana, Slovenija

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Agrivoltaics (AV) represents a synergistic land-use strategy that combines solar energy generation with high-value fruit production. As climate change intensifies heatwaves, droughts, and sunburn-related crop damage, AV offers a promising solution for improving the resilience and sustainability of perennial orchards. This review synthesizes data from experimental field trials, modeling studies, and analog shading systems, focusing on apples, pears, cherries, berries, kiwifruit, and olives. Studies were selected based on methodological clarity and relevance to temperate and Mediterranean climates. Parameters such as panel geometry (height, tilt, ground coverage ratio), light transmittance, and microclimatic effects were compared across species. Findings indicate that properly designed AV systems can reduce fruit surface temperatures by up to 3.3 °C and decrease sunburn incidence by over 90%, especially in apples and pears. Berry crops displayed species-specific light tolerance, with strawberries and blueberries performing well under moderate shading. In kiwifruit and olives, partial coverage (<30%) maintained yield while improving water efficiency. Integrating lightweight AV modules into existing orchard structures proved technically feasible for cherries. Despite promising agronomic and energy outcomes, large-scale adoption of AV remains constrained by policy, legal, and financial barriers. Strategic support is needed to align AV deployment with climate and energy goals. In conclusion, AV offers a multifunctional approach to land use that enhances farm resilience, enables dual revenue streams, and supports EU decarbonization strategies particularly in permanent fruit cropping systems.

Keywords

agrivoltaics; fruit orchards; dual-use systems; climate adaptation; solar energy

Hrčak ID:

336718

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/336718

Publication date:

14.8.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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