Agrivoltaics development progresses: From the perspective of photovoltaic impact on crops, soil ecology and climate

Abstract

Agrivoltaics, the simultaneous use of land for both agriculture and photovoltaic (PV) energy production, has gained significant attention as a sustainable land-use strategy. This review investigates the progress of agrivoltaics from the perspective of its impacts on crops, soil ecology, and climate. First, the impacts of agrivoltaic systems on solar radiation were assessed, including soil humidity and, temperature dynamics, while considering the potential for changes in soil microbial communities. Second, how PV panels influence crop growth, yield, and quality through the modification of light distribution, temperature regulation, and soil humidity were explored. Lastly, the challenges and propose recommendations for optimizing the integration of agriculture and PV systems were addressed. This review aims to highlight the benefits and trade-offs of agrivoltaics, offering a roadmap for future research and implementation strategies to enhance the synergy between renewable energy production and sustainable agriculture.

Keywords: Agrivoltaics; Crop planting; Environmental factors; soil ecology.