The concept: The replacement of conventional energy sources such as oil and gas by renewable ones such as photovoltaics (PV) promises to bring inexpensive, abundant, and clean, non-polluting energy to society. With limited energy resources but plenty of sun, Cyprus is rapidly deploying PV parks that produce energy for the grid. However, suitable land is becoming scarce and expensive, while the convert of farmland to PV parks is no longer desirable (or allowed). Finding ways to use the land for energy while preserving and even enhancing the ability of the land for food production is ideal. That was the motivation for the project, FarmPV, “stone Fruits And berries thRiving in agronoMy powered by photovoltaics (PV)” which officially commenced on 2/5/2024 and with a duration of two years.

The FARMPV overarching objectives: FarmPV will explore agro photovoltaics (agroPV) technologies towards enhanced production volumes of added-value commodities such as raspberry and sweet cherry fruits (RCF) to meet the local demand for Cyprus in a sustainable, economical, and scalable way. Currently berries and stone fruits are produced in Cyprus with limited season availability and only locally distributed. For this project, fresh fruits will be produced in a controlled open field under the canopy of specially designed photovoltaic (PV) systems and netting systems. State-of-the-art technologies will be developed, namely: i) transparent photovoltaics with specialty film on it for controlling transparency and the climate for the RCF, ii) innovative and affordable mounting for the PV designed for this application, (iii) innovative netting system that protects the fruits from insects and shapes the quality and quantity of light that is used for photosynthesis, (iv) Quality control methods for the RCF and (v) an autonomous energy management and maintenance PV system that provides in a single interface the performance of the PV, the transparency control and maintenance. By the completion of the project a first of its kind for Cyprus agroPV pilot plot will be implemented integrating the proposed PV and farming technologies demonstrating the value of the proposed concept. With a scalable design and adaptable technology, our project could be implemented across diverse agricultural landscapes in Cyprus and beyond. By sharing our expertise and best practices, we aim to inspire similar initiatives and accelerate the adoption of agroPV.

The overarching aim of the project is to introduce photovoltaics in the agriculture of two added value commodities. In order to establish a future for this beyond the project and to promote uptake of this concept, the effect on yield efficiency, quality of the fruit, extension of harvest window and the economic viability will be assessed. The general objectives of the project which are compatible with the program call are:

Effective Collaboration: FarmPV brings together innovative SMEs specializing in fruit (MBP) and PV (IQ3 and ELETOYIA) in effective collaboration with academia (CUT and UNIVPM the FRO from Italy). The FRO is world renowned in the area of stone fruit and berry production and in smart agroPV coming from a country that pioneers agroPV will bring technology and knowledge transfer to Cyprus. The project will promote staff mobility to Cyprus and Italy for demonstrations, joint training, dissemination, and development activities. FarmPV is compatible with the objectives of the CO-DEVELOP program. It promotes staff mobility, collaboration between industry and academia, the transfer and exchange of knowledge and resources.

Sustainable Economic Growth: With this project farmers will be able to produce excellent quality fruit, extend the growth season while reducing the Greenhouse Gases (GhG) produced by agriculture. High prices of farming will be tackled by taking advantage of the abundant energy source provided by the sun. The harvest yield will improve using PVs, the netting and water resources creating microclimate conditions ideal for efficient plant growth.

Promoting Innovation: This will be the first of its kind project in Cyprus and through our dissemination efforts the results and methodology of the project will be promoted. This will kick start the creation of an agroPV eco system in Cyprus where researchers and industry work together to bring sustainable farming solutions to the market. Due to its geographical location and excellent relationship with surrounding MENA (Middle East and North Africa) countries Cyprus could also be an exporter of knowledge (in addition to exporter of fruit) to those countries that face similar challenges (hot, dry climate affecting food production). Cyprus could become a regional innovation hub in the area of agroPV.