Photovoltaic greenhouses represent a major step forward for modern agriculture. They combine the production of solar energy and the cultivation of plants, thus offering a doubly beneficial solution. This innovative approach not only allows agricultural products to be grown in optimal conditions, but also generates clean electricity. In this article, we will explore seven key advantages of the photovoltaic greenhouse for ecological crops, highlighting why this technology is increasingly being adopted by farmers concerned about the environment and the profitability of their farm.

Key Points to Remember

• The photovoltaic greenhouse protects crops from climatic hazards and pests, ensuring better control of environmental risks.
• It enables the production of renewable energy, thus contributing to the energy transition and the reduction of the farm’s carbon footprint.
• Thanks to the regulation of temperature and humidity, the photovoltaic greenhouse optimises plant growth conditions and reduces energy consumption related to heating or air conditioning.
• The installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse opens up new income opportunities for farmers, in particular via the sale of electricity.
• This type of structure promotes the diversification of crops, allowing the production of varieties that would not be possible outdoors, even out of season.

1. Control of environmental risks

Photovoltaic greenhouses offer a unique opportunity to control the environmental risks associated with traditional agriculture. They allow for more precise management of resources and a reduction in the impact on the environment.

The installation of photovoltaic greenhouses can modify the environment, by moderating solar radiation, temperature and soil humidity, which can influence crop yields. It is also true that the implementation of an agrivoltaic installation can have an impact on soil properties at the scale of the agricultural plot, as well as on local biodiversity in the short and long term. But these challenges are not insurmountable with the right measures and precautions. It is necessary to ensure:

• Choose the right crops, the optimal orientation of the panels or the modulation of their shading.
• Carry out an environmental impact assessment (EIA) prior to the project when necessary to anticipate and mitigate potential effects on soil and biodiversity.
• Involve agronomists, ecologists and solar energy experts from the earliest stages of planning to ensure harmony between agriculture and energy production.
• Implement regular monitoring measures to assess the impact of installations on the soil, crops and surrounding fauna and flora, and adjust methods if necessary.
• Promote biological diversity by integrating habitats conducive to wildlife, such as hedges, ponds or fallow areas around the installations.

Control of climatic conditions is a major advantage. Indeed, greenhouses offer protection against climatic hazards such as heavy rain, hail, excessive wind and temperature variations. This reduces crop losses and ensures more stable and predictable production. In addition, better control of water supply is possible, thanks to the recovery of rainwater in retention basins.

In addition to protection against the elements, photovoltaic greenhouses contribute to the reduction of the use of pesticides and herbicides. By creating a controlled environment, it is possible to limit the spread of diseases and pests, thus reducing the need for chemical interventions. This promotes agriculture that is more respectful of the environment and human health. In addition, the use of HVAC systems improves air quality and ensures a pleasant and healthy indoor environment.

Finally, photovoltaic greenhouses can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. By creating habitats for pollinating insects and other wild animals, they can promote biological diversity in agricultural areas. In addition, they can reduce pressure on natural resources by optimising the use of water and energy. By opting for the creation of a photovoltaic greenhouse, you actively participate in the energy transition of France and become a local supplier of green electricity.

2. Production of renewable energies

The integration of a photovoltaic greenhouse represents a significant opportunity for the production of renewable energies. These structures do not just house and protect crops; they also act as power plants, converting sunlight into clean electricity. It’s a doubly beneficial approach, combining agriculture and energy production.

The electricity produced can be used in several ways:

• Self-consumption: The energy can power the needs of the farm itself, thus reducing dependence on the traditional electricity grid and decreasing energy costs. This can include powering the irrigation, heating, ventilation and lighting systems of the greenhouse.
• Resale: The surplus electricity can be resold to the electricity grid, thus generating additional income for the operator. This resale is often encouraged by preferential purchase prices for renewable energies.
• Local supply: The energy can be distributed locally, contributing to the supply of green electricity to surrounding communities. This reinforces the image of the farm as an actor committed to the energy transition.

Agrivoltaics, which combines agricultural production and solar energy production, is a promising solution to meet the energy and food challenges of tomorrow. It optimises land use, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and creates new economic opportunities for farmers.

Photovoltaic greenhouses are fully in line with the renewable energy development objectives set by France and the European Union. They contribute to the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels and to the fight against climate change. In addition, they can benefit from financial support and tax incentives, making the investment even more attractive. It is important to note that the integration of HVAC systems improves energy efficiency.

By opting for a photovoltaic greenhouse, you actively participate in the energy transition, while ensuring the sustainability and profitability of your farm. It’s a sustainable investment, both ecological and economic. The production of renewable energy is a major asset of photovoltaic greenhouses. The integration of solar energy is a sustainable solution. The installation of a heat pump can also be considered.

3. Reduction of energy consumption

The implementation of a photovoltaic greenhouse represents a significant opportunity to reduce the energy consumption of a farm. Indeed, these structures allow electricity to be produced directly at the place of use, thus reducing dependence on the traditional electricity grid and the losses linked to the transport of energy.

The integration of solar panels offers a dual functionality: it ensures the production of renewable energy and contributes to the thermal management of the greenhouse. This translates into a reduction in heating needs in winter and cooling in summer, thus optimising the overall energy efficiency of the farm.

Optimising energy consumption is a major challenge for modern farms. Photovoltaic greenhouses, by combining energy production and crop protection, offer a sustainable and economically viable solution.

Here are some concrete advantages:

• Reduction of electricity bills.
• Reduction of the farm’s carbon footprint.
• Increased energy autonomy.

In addition, the surplus electricity produced can be resold, generating an additional income and improving the profitability of the investment. The installation of HVAC systems can also help reduce energy consumption.

The design of the greenhouse, the orientation of the panels and the choice of materials are determining factors for maximising energy production and minimising consumption. An in-depth study of the energy needs of the farm is therefore essential to correctly size the installation and optimise its operation. The installation of photovoltaics offers many advantages for reducing energy consumption and committing to an environmental approach.

4. Diversification of activities

The installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse offers much more than simple agricultural production. It opens the door to a diversification of activities, allowing you to explore new avenues and optimise the use of your land. It’s a bit like having several strings to your bow, which strengthens the resilience of your farm.

Considering a photovoltaic greenhouse means giving yourself the possibility of not putting all your eggs in one basket. This makes it possible to cushion the risks linked to climatic hazards or market fluctuations.

Here are some examples of diversification that you can consider:

• Cultivation of seasonal and exotic varieties: The greenhouse allows you to control the environment, opening the way to crops that are normally impossible in your region.
• Production of seedlings: You can produce your own seedlings or sell them to other farmers.
• Educational welcome: Organise visits to your farm to raise public awareness of renewable energies and sustainable agriculture. It’s a way to create links and value your work.

In short, a photovoltaic greenhouse is an investment that can transform your farm and open up new perspectives. It allows you to combine agriculture and solar energy in an intelligent and sustainable way.

5. Additional income

The installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse represents a tangible opportunity to increase your income. It’s not just a question of diversification, but a real source of additional income that can stabilise your farm.

The idea is simple: you produce electricity, and this electricity, you can sell it. It’s a bit like having an additional crop, except that this crop does not depend on direct climatic hazards.

In addition to protecting your crops, a photovoltaic greenhouse can become a major financial asset for your farm.

Imagine for a moment: you continue to grow your vegetables, your fruits, your flowers, and at the same time, you produce energy. This energy, you can use it for your own consumption, thus reducing your electricity bills. And the surplus? You sell it. It’s a virtuous circle.

Speaking of sales, there are several options. You can opt for the sale of electricity directly to the grid, or explore purchase contracts with energy suppliers. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but the objective remains the same: to transform the sun into euros.

In addition, some farmers choose to rent their land to companies specialising in solar energy. It’s another way to generate additional income, without having to directly manage the installation and sale of electricity. It’s a bit like rent, but with the sun as a tenant.

Here are some points to consider:

• Purchase prices: They vary depending on the power of your installation and the contracts in force.
• Aid and subsidies: Find out about financial aid schemes for the installation of photovoltaic greenhouses. They can considerably reduce your initial investment.
• Maintenance: Plan for the maintenance costs of the photovoltaic installation. Regular maintenance is essential to guarantee optimal production.

In summary, a photovoltaic greenhouse is much more than a simple shelter for your crops. It’s a smart investment that can bring you a stable income and sustainable, while contributing to the energy transition. Think about it, it may be the solution to secure the future of your farm and diversify your income.

6. Crop protection

Photovoltaic greenhouses offer increased protection to crops, which is particularly important in the face of climatic hazards and pests. They allow you to create a controlled environment, thus optimising growing conditions.

The installation of photovoltaic greenhouses represents a significant investment, but the advantages in terms of crop protection and renewable energy production can justify this investment in the long term.

Here are some key advantages of crop protection thanks to photovoltaic greenhouses:

• Protection against the elements: Greenhouses protect crops against hail, heavy rain and strong winds. For example, in regions exposed to the Mistral, a greenhouse can make all the difference.
• Climate control: They allow you to regulate temperature and humidity, creating an ideal microclimate for plant growth. In winter, they can retain heat, thus protecting crops from frost, a definite advantage of agrivoltaics.
• Reduction of diseases and pests: By creating a physical barrier, greenhouses reduce the exposure of crops to diseases and pests, thus reducing the need for pesticides. This contributes to more ecological and sustainable agriculture.
• Optimisation of sunshine: Photovoltaic panels can be designed to let through the optimal amount of light, thus avoiding thermal stress for plants.

In summary, photovoltaic greenhouses offer a complete solution to protect crops and optimise their yield, while producing clean energy. They represent a major asset for more resilient and sustainable agriculture.

7. Diversification of varieties

The photovoltaic greenhouse offers a controlled environment that opens the door to a diversification of crops. You can consider varieties that would be difficult to grow in the open field in your region. It’s an opportunity to explore new markets and respond to a growing demand for varied and quality products.

Cultivation under a photovoltaic greenhouse allows you to consider varieties that are less demanding in sunshine, the yield of which is improved by the regulation of production conditions.

Here are some examples of what you could consider:

• Out-of-season vegetables and fruits.
• Old or rare varieties.
• Specific aromatic and medicinal plants.

By diversifying your varieties, you reduce your dependence on a single type of crop and you increase your resilience to climatic hazards or market fluctuations. In addition, this can allow you to offer a more attractive offer to your customers, in particular in direct sales or in short circuits. It is important to note that the integration of HVAC systems is essential to maintain a stable and optimal environment for these diversified crops.

The diversification of varieties is a major asset of the photovoltaic greenhouse, allowing you to optimise production and increase the profitability of the farm.

To find out more about the different kinds of plants that can be grown, and discover how to choose the ones that suit you best, don’t hesitate to visit our website. You will find lots of useful information to get your gardening off to a good start and explore the richness of nature.

In short: the photovoltaic greenhouse, a choice that counts

In the end, the photovoltaic greenhouse is a solution that has everything to please. It helps to produce clean energy, which is good for the planet. At the same time, it protects crops from the vagaries of the weather and even allows you to grow things a little differently. It’s a good plan for farmers who want to save money and earn a little more. It’s a way of doing agriculture that looks to the future, combining the production of food and energy. It’s a great step forward for more sustainable and profitable agriculture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a photovoltaic greenhouse?

A photovoltaic greenhouse is an agricultural structure that combines the cultivation of plants with the production of electricity thanks to solar panels installed on its roof. It protects crops while generating clean energy.

What are the main advantages of a photovoltaic greenhouse?

Photovoltaic greenhouses offer many advantages. They protect crops from climatic hazards, allow cultivation out of season, reduce the farm’s energy consumption, and generate additional income thanks to the sale of the electricity produced. They also contribute to the production of renewable energy and the diversification of crops.

Don’t the solar panels on the greenhouse block the light needed by the plants?

Yes, solar panels can filter out some of the sunlight. However, photovoltaic greenhouses are designed to optimise the light received by the plants. We choose suitable panels and install them in such a way as to allow enough light to pass through for crop growth. In addition, some crops adapt very well to this filtered light.

What crops can be grown under a photovoltaic greenhouse?

Many crops can be grown under a photovoltaic greenhouse, including vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, salads), fruits (strawberries), flowers and aromatic plants. The choice will depend on the amount of light and temperature that the greenhouse can offer.

How does the installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse work?

The installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse is an important project. First, it is necessary to study the technical and economic feasibility, obtain the necessary permits, then call on professionals for the construction of the greenhouse and the installation of the solar panels. It is often possible to benefit from financial aid for this type of project.

Can the electricity produced by the greenhouse be used for the farm?

Yes, the electricity produced by the solar panels can be used for the needs of the farm, such as heating, ventilation or lighting of the greenhouse. The surplus electricity can be sold to the electricity grid, which generates additional income.

What is the lifespan of a photovoltaic greenhouse?

The lifespan of a photovoltaic greenhouse is generally long, often more than 30 years for the structure and the solar panels. Regular maintenance of the panels and the greenhouse is important to ensure their proper functioning and durability.

Is there any aid to finance the installation of a photovoltaic greenhouse?

Yes, there are often financial aid and subsidies from public authorities or specialised organisations to encourage the installation of photovoltaic greenhouses. This aid can cover part of the investment costs and make the project more accessible.