A 4,000 m² agrivoltaic array was unveiled in Conthey on 18 September 2025, marking a groundbreaking development for Switzerland: photovoltaic modules installed above orchard crops. Agronomic monitoring will be done by Agroscope.
Following several pilot projects with strawberries, raspberries and blueberries, Agroscope is now extending its research to orchard crops. The scientists monitor the growth, yield and fruit quality of crops growing under the agri-PV modules, as well as the effects of the microclimate created by the modules.
Preliminary trials, which have been running since 2021 in partnership with Insolight and Romande Energie, show that yields are affected by the lower light intensity under the PV modules. The yield reduction is more pronounced for strawberries than for raspberries, which are more tolerant of shade.
From the 2026 season, the trials will be extended to include apples, pears and apricots grown under the new agri-PV array.
The project is led by Insolight in partnership with Agroscope, Romande Energie and the canton of Valais.
This public-private initiative aims to evaluate the positive effects of agri-photovoltaics and highlight their potential limitations.
Challenges of agrivoltaics
Agri-PV is a promising solution for agriculture that can tackle several key challenges: it optimises land use, protects crops from heat, sun, drought, hail and – depending on the installation – frost. At the same time, it produces local renewable energy for farms and enables farmers to diversify their income streams.
