An agro-voltaic installation with a height of four meters and a power of 3.5 megawatts was placed above a vineyard in southern France to address climate threats, particularly the sharp increase in temperature that can occur in the region during the summer months. This installation used a microclimatic control system to mitigate the effects of extreme temperatures on wine grape cultivation.
Research has shown significant increases in yield for different wine grape varieties under the agro-voltaic system. For example, ‘Grenache Blanc’ saw a 45% increase, ‘Marslan’ had a 25% increase, and ‘Chardonnay’ showed a 10% increase. The company claims that not only is there an increase in quantity, but also an improvement in the quality of the fruit and wine produced.
The research found that the agro-voltaic system led to a decrease in temperature under the panels during heat loads, with a significant reduction in surface temperature of the vines. This decrease is crucial for maintaining the balance between acids and sugars in the grapes. Additionally, the system resulted in a 35% reduction in irrigation needs due to reduced water evaporation caused by shading from the panels.
Cecile Magherini, CEO of Sun’Agri France, expressed satisfaction with the research results and highlighted the benefits of the agro-voltaic system for vineyard cultivation. Bar Weiss, CEO of Sun Agri Israel, emphasized the extensive research experience of the company and expressed confidence in the system’s potential success in varying climates, including more extreme conditions such as those found in Israel.