State of the art of Agrivoltaics in Brazil and Insights for National Regulation

Abstract

Brazil, a global leader in agriculture and solar energy production, faces persistent challenges of energy poverty and food insecurity. Agrivoltaic systems (AVS), which integrate agricultural activities and photovoltaic energy generation on the same land, offer a promising solution to improve land-use efficiency, strengthen rural development, and advance a just energy transition. However, Brazil has yet to establish a regulatory framework to guide and scale up AVS deployment. This paper presents the current state of agrivoltaics in Brazil, analyzing pilot projects implemented between 2019 and 2025 across diverse climatic zones and agricultural models. These cases reveal a wide range of technical configurations, from small-scale designs for family farming to large-scale experimental systems, highlighting the country’s potential for adapting AVS to regional needs. Key opportunities are discussed for AVS development in Brazil, including abundant land and solar resources, the strong role of small-scale agriculture, and the potential to mitigate energy and food insecurities in vulnerable communities. We also identify barriers to expansion, such as the absence of policy incentives and regulatory clarity. Drawing from international experiences and Brazil’s existing legal frameworks for distributed generation, we propose regulatory insights tailored to the country’s socio-environmental context. These include defining minimum AVS criteria, incorporating regional parameters, and engaging stakeholders in policymaking processes. By aligning AVS regulation with climate, energy, and agricultural goals, Brazil can leverage agrivoltaics as a strategic tool to support sustainable development and inclusive energy transitions.