Six different scab-resistant apple varieties are grown organically at LTZ Augustenberg (Natyra, Bonita, Freya, Swing, Topaz and Rubelit) along with two varieties of pear (Conference and Novembra) under two overhead PV systems. The aim of this sub-project is to investigate the impacts of the different types of PV module (semi-transparent and bifacial) and different PV systems (fixed and tracking) compared with areas under conventional hail nets (reference plots). A particularity of this agrivoltaic facilityis that it is surrounded by netting to protect against flying insect pests. LTZ Augustenberg also conducts the agricultural research at the Oberkirch-Nußbach site.

The horticultural research under the PV modules and on the reference plots of LTZ Augustenberg focuses on tree health and growth, yield, fruit setting and quality (colour development, size, composition). It also investigates the effect of the shade cast by the PV modules on natural fruit thinning, which can be controlled by light levels. The shade can stimulate tree growth, which is useful for some varieties. The influence of the PV modules on this will also be assessed.

The project will also evaluate the combination of PV modules and all-round netting on the incidence, degree and intensity of pest infestations (e.g. codling moth, apple sawfly, woolly aphid, bugs, mites, aphids, apple scab, mildew) and beneficial organisms. It can be assumed that it will be possible to reduce the use of crop protection products under the agrivoltaic facilities.

Technical details:

• Fixed system (east-west orientation): 720 semi-transparent PV modules at 300 Wp (216 kWp) with 49% transparency

• Tracking system: 720 bifacial PV modules at 380 Wp (274 kWp)

• Hail and insect protection netting around and over the entire area; the side netting can be rolled up after harvest