Recent research from the University of Sheffield reveals that the UK’s electricity demand could be met more than four times over by integrating solar panels with agricultural activities. Simply put: Agrivoltaics.
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Agrivoltaics involves installing solar panels above or among crops, enabling simultaneous crop cultivation and energy production on the same land. This dual-use approach addresses concerns about losing prime agricultural land to solar farms, a common issue among farmers and local communities.
The study identifies regions such as Cambridgeshire, Essex, Lincolnshire, and the broader East and South East of England as ideal for agrivoltaic deployment. These areas offer flat terrain, existing farming practices, robust grid connections, and adequate solar radiation, making them suitable for integrating solar infrastructure with agriculture. citeturn0search0
Previous research by the University of Sheffield in Tanzania and Kenya demonstrated that certain crops, including maize, Swiss chard, and beans, benefited from partial shading beneath solar panels, leading to improved yields and water conservation. Additionally, rainwater runoff from the panels reduced irrigation demands, further enhancing sustainability. citeturn0search2
Implementing agrivoltaics in the UK could mitigate public opposition related to farmland loss while contributing to the nation’s net-zero commitments. By allowing solar farms to coexist with agricultural activities, this approach offers a sustainable solution to expanding renewable energy capacity without compromising food production. citeturn0search0
In conclusion, why have just one when you can have both?? Agrivoltaics presents a promising pathway for the UK to significantly boost its solar energy capacity without encroaching on agricultural land. By embracing this innovative approach, the UK can progress towards its renewable energy targets while maintaining food security and supporting sustainable farming practices.
Have your solar and eat it too!
References
Google (2025) ‘Gemini (Imagen 3) [AI image generator]’. Available at: https://ai.google.dev/gemini-api/docs/imagen (Accessed: 5 March 2025).
University of Sheffield (2025) ‘Solar technology could meet UK’s electricity needs without sacrificing farmland’. Available at: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/solar-technology-could-meet-uks-electricity-needs-without-sacrificing-farmland (Accessed: 5 March 2025).
University of Sheffield (2024) ‘Harvesting the sun twice: Agrivoltaics shows promise for sustainable food, energy, and water management in East Africa’. Available at: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/harvesting-sun-twice-agrivoltaics-shows-promise-sustainable-food-energy-and-water-management-east (Accessed: 5 March 2025).