Solar panels could work in pear orchards in Australia

AN experiment which has solar panels installed within a high density pear orchard is making researchers optimistic about the future possibilities. Based at the Tatura SmartFarm, the $500,000 experiment examines the use of solar panels over a high-density pear orchard. The canopy of solar panels generates energy, protects fruit from extreme weather events and improves water efficiency. The output of the orchard, Australia's first ever pear orchard agrivoltaic experiment, in its first year had positive effects on fruit production. It also provided insight into areas for improvement, particularly to enhance the solar panel benefi ts to fruit development. The results of the experiment were brought to the attention of international research institutions who are interested in learning from the only agrivoltaic orchard in the southern hemisphere. AGRICULTURE Victoria research director Angela Avery said she was excited by the opportunities the experiment presented. "By farming under solar ...