Reference system agrivoltaics in pome fruit cultivation - apples/pears at LTZ Augustenberg in Baden-Württemberg - start of construction April/May 2024

LTZ Augustenberg - Karlsruhe - Reference project Agri Photovoltaics in pome fruit cultivation - apples/pears


Planning, project planning and construction of an agrivoltaic system at LTZ Augustenberg, start of construction April/May 2024.


  • Fixed east-west elevation approx. 216 kWp and east-west tracker system approx. 274 kWp
  • Total generator output approx. 490 kWp


Technical details:


  • Height lower edge of the modules 4.50 m
  • Pile spacing of the elevation 5.00 m
  • Elevation angle of the modules 10° (+/-2°)
  • Two different module types, bifacial (tracker-system) and 50 % transparency (east-west elevation), monocrystalline solar cells with high efficiency
  • Rainproof fastening strips
  • Approx. 1 ha, existing plantation - 18 rows of apples and 4 rows of pears, a total of 2,000 trees, row length approx. 100 - 110 m
  • Connected hail and insect protection net around and over the entire surface
  • The side net can be detached from the tray after harvesting and rolled upwards
  • Proof of stability through geotechnical expertise
  • Concrete free fixation through rammed profiles

Thomas Franke and Martin Hibsch were responsible for sales support, planning and project planning, project support and monitoring through to commissioning with documentation.

Apples/pears under PV modules


  • Simultaneous use of the area for photovoltaic power generation and agriculture and its further use (apple and pear cultivation)
  • Protects the crop from extreme weather conditions (heavy rain, hail, frost, direct sunlight, wind, etc.), enables dry cultivation, protects against plant damage
  • Shading of the apple trees with semi-transparent glass/glass solar modules (50 % transparency) provide sufficient light for photosynthesis, improving soil properties and soil life
  • Reduction in the use of sprays/pesticides due to less wetness on the crop
  • Cooling of the PV modules through evaporation of the water, increase in soil moisture
  • Influence on the microclimate (temperature curve, temperature peaks, humidity, frost protection effect)
  • Influence on infestation with diseases and pests (birds, insect pests, rodents, fungal diseases)
  • Monetary added value of energy generation