Biodiversity and photovoltaics combined in one area
RWA Solar Solutions has implemented a pilot project that is unique in Austria. A large-scale photovoltaic system combined with biodiversity areas enables energy generation in harmony with nature. For this purpose, a photovoltaic system with approximately 10,000 solar panels was installed on the Garant Tiernahrung site in Pöchlarn. A total of 4.1 MWp of power is operated on an area of five hectares, directly utilizing half of Garant’s electricity consumption.
The “Eco-Solar Biotope Pöchlarn” is divided into two areas. Panels face south and are positioned at a fixed incline on 90 percent of the area. The soil beneath it has been planted with a species-rich seed mix, and the entire system is surrounded by a biodiversity hedge, creating habitats for insects, birds, butterflies, amphibians, and small mammals. The special installation method using ramming profiles allows rainwater to flow between the PV modules, thus preventing soil sealing. This biodiversity area will be scientifically evaluated by the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) over the next few years.
Three different models of agricultural photovoltaics are being tested on the remaining area. In this sense, the Pöchlarn plant serves as a role model: the “Wanderfrucht” (wandering crop) system with rotating panels for optimal cultivation with tractors, the “Südernte” (southern harvest) system for use with combine harvesters, and the “Powerkultur” (power culture) system for fruit trees and shrubs. RWA Solar Solutions offers farmers a full range of services, from planning and construction to operation and marketing of the energy. The panels protect the crops and soil from weather influences such as solar radiation, heavy rain, and hail. The areas are scientifically managed by the Francisco Josephinum.
RWA Solar Solutions and Frutura cooperate in the field of agricultural photovoltaics
Frutura, a producer and Austria’s largest marketer of fruit and vegetables, was selected as a partner to manage the agricultural land.
The Pöchlarn Ecosolar Biotope combines a unique photovoltaic system with biodiversity areas and a test facility for agricultural photovoltaics. The goal of the project is sustainable electricity generation in harmony with nature and agricultural use. This enables a significant increase in land efficiency. The concept focused specifically on practical suitability. For this reason, RWA Solar Solutions also sought a competent partner to manage the test facility.
Frutura tests cultivation with apple trees
Oliver Eisenhöld, Head of Energy at RWA Raiffeisen Ware Austria, said: “We are very pleased to have Frutura as a partner for the use of the test area. The coming challenges related to climate change and the energy transition can be minimized through concepts such as agricultural photovoltaics. We want to use this to support the regional supply of food and independent energy in the long term.”
The cultivation of apple trees is now being tested on a defined reference area directly beneath the photovoltaic system.
“Frutura is a pioneer in sustainable agriculture. By using geothermal energy, we have set new standards in year-round, resource-efficient production of fruit and vegetables. With the use of photovoltaic systems to protect our apple harvest, we are taking the next innovative step. The collaboration with RWA Solar Solutions is a prime example of how we can make the world a better place together without having to sacrifice quality of life or efficient production,” says Fritz Häupl, Head of Strategic Procurement at Frutura.
Concept to start of construction: April 2019 to November 2020
Start of construction to completion: November 2020 to September 2021
