A pioneering agrivoltaic system tailored specifically for growing hops has been developed in Chuvashia, marking a first for Russia. The joint project, created by engineers from the Hevel solar module plant and researchers from Chuvash State University, is designed to reduce water consumption by up to 29% while maintaining optimal microclimatic conditions for the crop through partial shading and concurrent solar power generation, EnergyLand reported.
In this innovative setup, solar panels are installed above the hop fields, creating a shaded environment that helps regulate moisture, airflow, and temperature — all key factors for healthy plant development.
Professor Sergey Vasilyev of Chuvash State University noted that agrivoltaic systems are more commonly used for potatoes, wheat, fruit orchards, and vineyards. "This is the first known application of agrivoltaics in hop farming," he said.
The system is built into the existing trellis infrastructure of hop plantations, making it cost-effective and easy to install. It runs autonomously, featuring domestic solar modules, a battery system, and a charge controller. It also enables the charging of drones, electric tractors, and supports automated irrigation systems.
A pilot installation is already in operation at the hop fields of the Chuvash Agricultural Research Institute in the Tsivilsky district. Full-scale deployment of the system is expected to generate around 1,500 MWh of electricity annually — enough to support fully automated and energy-efficient hop cultivation.
