In the era of energy transition, Polish and European agriculture faces many challenges. Agri-PV may be the answer.
The second edition of the AgroPV conference, of which BayWa r.e. Poland was a partner, is behind us. On 14 November, representatives of government, business, and agriculture debated together the opportunities for the development of Agri-PV in Poland.
The conference was divided into three modules dedicated to the role of agrivoltaics in agriculture, opportunities to unlock its potential in Poland, and conditions for development.
Naomi Chevillard, Head of Regulatory Affairs, SolarPower Europe, presented the European perspective on the development of agrovoltaics. Although the EU is not a leading producer of PV modules, it is a leader in solar services and specialization in narrow sectors, such as Agri-PV, which offers the opportunity for further efficient development and growth of PV capacity.
Adam Nowak, Poland's Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Milosz Motyka, Poland's Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment, stressed the importance of the energy transition, as well as the role of Polish agriculture, which is the sector most vulnerable to climate change. At the same time, it was reported that creating a framework for developing this technology is an ongoing topic of discussion at the ministry.
The speakers also focused on the important protective role of agrivoltaics in fruit production, especially soft fruits. Due to the need to electrify Polish agriculture, on-farm electricity consumption will undoubtedly increase in the future, and Agri-PV can respond to that need, securing energy supply.
“This year's AgroPV conference was a summary of what has been achieved in agrovoltaics development so far in Poland. Awareness of the role of Agri-PV - whether in agriculture or renewable energy - of all stakeholders attending the event was at the highest level. Unfortunately, without systemic changes, and appropriate legal and tax regulations, this sector cannot speed up. We are therefore waiting for the announced changes.” - comments Artur Marchewka, MD of BayWa r.e. Poland and Vice President of the Board of the Polish Association of Agrivoltaics.
The event clearly emphasized that Agri-PV is no longer a market novelty in Poland, but a proven technology whose implementation is needed. Therefore, an appropriate legal framework, opportunities for financial support, and education in this area are necessary for the development of such projects.
