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Study on the feasibility of agrivoltaics in the Kinki region of Japan
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1  Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University
Academic Editor: Daniel Real

Abstract:

Agrivoltaics is an approach that integrates agriculture and photovoltaics on the same land, offering a range of benefits. These include improved profitability for farmers and local areas, increased efficiency in land and water use, and the promotion of electrification and decarbonization in the agricultural sector. However, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the area, it is critical to address the issue of overly industrialized "pseudo-agriculture" and the potential conflicts that may arise between power generation and agriculture, depending on the design of the power generation facilities. This requires a comprehensive understanding of the region's specific agricultural, agroecology and energy situations, as well as designing appropriate institutional arrangements. In this study, we assess the feasibility of implementing agrivoltaics in Japan's Kinki region, encompassing 7 prefectures and 227 municipalities, with the aim of gaining insights into the region's current situation. To achieve this, we employ an original methodology utilizing a geographic information system that incorporates considerations of safety and profitability. By evaluating multiple scenarios, we examine electricity generation, agricultural production, and various indicators related to agroecology. The results show that even in scenarios that prioritize the preservation and improvement of agricultural production, 13 municipalities have the potential to generate surplus electricity beyond their annual consumption. Overall, the results of this study provide valuable insights into the regional potential of agrivoltaic systems, supporting informed policy-making and facilitating appropriate strategies for sustainable development.

Keywords: Agrivoltaics; Geographic information system; Decarbonizing agriculture

 
 
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