Why reconcile irrigation and agrivoltaics?

Irrigation integrated with agrivoltaic solutions

A pioneer in agrivoltaics, the company TSE, a solar energy producer, is developing agrivoltaic projects smart ones that incorporate an automated irrigation system. Thanks to this innovation, irrigation is done by sprinkling directly under the solar panels, limiting water losses and simplifying the work of farmers.

By combining the dynamic shading of photovoltaic panels with a irrigation piloted, the water savings can reach up to 30%. This performance is made possible by the drop in ground temperatures and the reduction ofevapoperspiration, two direct effects of the coverage created by solar panels. The system thus acts in a complementary and synergistic manner.

> To read: Water and agriculture: understanding the issue in 6 key points.

Two irrigation systems designed by TSE

TSE has designed irrigation devices to integrate with two of its agrivoltaic solutions:

• Under the agricultural canopy : a sprinkler system positioned at a height of 5 meters, directly under the solar panels. It waters the cultivated area using the latest sprinkler technologies, recognized for their efficiency and water saving.
• Under the Cultivation shade : agricultural mini-cannons installed 2.50 meters under rotating photovoltaic panels on piles. Thanks to a system of hoses, they adapt to the movements of the panels. This device is activated when the panels are horizontal, ideally when there is not too much wind, when the temperature is not too high, at night or at the dew point, to maximize the efficiency of the irrigation.

The installation and maintenance of these systems are provided throughout France by the company Soverdi, a TSE partner.

Reasoned irrigation, controlled remotely and in real time

Thanks to an application available on smartphone, tablet and computer, the farmer can control his remote irrigation. The system, connected to sensors (tensiometric probes, weather stations, etc.), makes it possible to adapt irrigation according to the real needs of crops, soils and climatic conditions.

A farm operator can:

• Adjust water volumes daily (e.g.: reduce irrigation forecasts to 80%).
• Select areas specific to be irrigated.
• Plan several irrigations depending on the type of crop or the quality of the soil.

Each zone is independent, allowing fine and localized management. Of flow meters Connected devices inform the farmer about the quantities actually used and a safety mechanism automatically shuts off the water in case of overflow, avoiding any waste.

> To read : Reducing the water deficit in crops through agrivoltaics.

Fewer constraints, more efficiency for farmers

This integrated irrigation system also saves a considerable amount of time. THEfarmer no longer has to handle ramps, pivots or rollers. The absence of equipment movement on the Plot simplifies interventions and reduces workload. Management allows optimized management, even remotely.

What are the conditions for installing an irrigation system on a TSE agrivoltaic solution?

Before implementing this type of irrigation, several criteria must be met:

1. The plot in question must already be equipped of irrigation.
2. La Irrigation terminal must adapt to the installation to provide sufficient pressure and flow to supply the devices at height.
3. The farmer is involved in the project via a modest rent paid to TSE, and will ensure the upkeep and maintenance of the irrigation system.

Experiments to validate performances

A first installation was carried out in the summer of 2023 under the agricultural canopy of the site of Brouchy. This system equipped with cannons is currently being monitored experimentally in collaboration with the Somme Chamber of Agriculture.

A second experiment on an agricultural canopy, this time with a integrated sprinkler system, is planned for another pilot site in Charente-Maritime. The objective is to accurately measure the water savings generated by the smart shading and irrigation combination, with the potential to reduce consumption by 20% to 30%.

>To read : Agrivoltaics and water management: discover our exclusive guide.

Towards even more complete systems: ferti-irrigation

In a logic of continuous improvement, the TSE teams, experts in photovoltaics and agrivoltaics, are also developing a solution for ferti-irrigation. A tank can be connected to the system to allow the simultaneous distribution of water and fertilizers, further simplifying agricultural interventions.

Do you have an agrivoltaics project? Contact TSE, a reference in agrivoltaics in France.