Agrivoltaics Underneath Semi-Transparent Panels

10 KWp University Experimental Pilot at Hyderabad, India

Abstract

Agrivoltaics is an emerging technology that integrates solar power generation with agriculture on the same land, enabling dual usage and creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. Conventional agrivoltaics systems, such as fixed panel arrangements with inter-row cropping, often limit agricultural yields to about 50% due to shading and structural constraints. To address this, Renkube has developed an innovative semi-transparent, light-redirecting solar panel design that allows sunlight to reach crops while simultaneously producing energy. This design fosters a favourable microclimate suitable for a wide range of crops.  The concept was scientifically validated through a collaborative six-season study (November 2022–November 2024) conducted by PJTA University, Renkube and AgHub. A 10 KWp agrivoltaics was installed and used to evaluate 15 crop varieties, and the research showed that the Renkube solar panels provided a 95% of open-field crop yield while generating renewable energy. 

The successful performance of this system opens a new paradigm where farmers can treat “Solar as the Third Crop,” alongside India’s traditional Rabi and Kharif seasons. Given that summer cultivation is often unviable due to high temperatures, agrivoltaics enables continuous income through land leasing to solar developers. Farmers can earn approximately ₹40,000 (USD 400) per acre per year, with an additional 2% royalty from solar export revenue.