Insolagrin @ Conthey (VS)

FEED CITIZENS & THE GRID

©Matthias Baumann, Agroscope

PROJECT PARTNERS

insolight
romande energy
swiss conf

GLOBAL PARTNERS

Migros logo

SUPPORTED BY

Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft
Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft
CSEM

PROJECT IN BRIEF

insolagrin – Conthey (VS) is a 165 ㎡ agrivoltaic pilot installation that demonstrates the replacement of agricultural plastic tunnels by solar modules. The pilot is installed on top of raspberries and strawberries in Conthey (VS), at the heart a major fruit production region in Switzerland.

More than a simple solar installation, insolagrin is a new tool for farmers. It enables dynamic adjustment of light, optimizing crops’ growth over seasons and variable climatic conditions. The excess sunlight is harvested into electricity, enabling a dual use of land – without tradeoffs.

The project is led by 3 partners, who combine key areas of expertise. Insolight provides the solar modules and the control system based on the THEIA technology, combining efficiency and adjustable translucency. The energy output is quantified by Romande Energie, who has built and operates the agrivoltaic installation. The impact on crop yield and quality is assessed by Agroscope, the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research and development in the agriculture, food and environment sector.

The project is supported by the P+D programme of the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), Innosuisse and CSEM started in June 2021 and will last 4 years. The detailed energy yield and agronomic results will be instrumental to open large deployments: Berries alone represent > 220’000 Ha in Europe – equivalent to a > 300 GWp potential.

http://THEIA%20Modules

PROJECT KEY FACTS

Key Facts
Project Timeline

IMPACT

There is an increasing competition for land between food production and solar power. This project aims to solve this dilemma, by leveraging the use of solar modules as shading systems.

Insolagrin solution addresses the 3 pillars of the European Green Deal at once.

Climate

Achieving Climate
Neutrality

Energy

Clean, Reliable and
Affordable Energy

Farmer

Farm to
Fork

EAT FRUIT, SAVE CARBON!