Why is agrivoltaics growing in France?

Interview with Bastien Clément, Sunti Development Director.

Here and there, there's talk of windfalls, of business... But above all, it's a question of consistency. We need to increase solar power production in France and, at the same time, tackle the economic and climatic problems facing farmers, not to mention the issue of French agricultural sovereignty. Without going overboard, is it possible to build synergy between the two systems? At SuntiWe're convinced it's possible. Since 2021, we have been offering agrivoltaic solutions dedicated to livestock farming.

What does a Sunti production plant look like?

Our systems for livestock farming consist of fixed structures and solar trackers on monopiles. They are installed at a height of 1.5 m for small livestock and 2 m for cattle. The 6 m spacing between rows allows comfortable working on the grass. Under the structures, with sufficient livestock pressure, little maintenance is required. It can be carried out using off-set tools (in this respect, we support farmers in the acquisition of equipment). The system generates few constraints.

More than an absence of constraints, you're highlighting a real synergy...

That's the whole point. The agrivoltaic system improves animal comfort (less stress due to heat and bad weather). It reduces the livestock's water requirements and improves forage quality and quantity thanks to the shade produced and the higher humidity levels under the structures. Sunti rejects "alibi" projects (dense structures and solar productivity only). We are looking for maximum comfort for the farmer and his animals, without neglecting the ancillary facilities: restraint, drinking troughs, sheepfold, etc. Sunti assumes the installation costs and operates the plant. This allows the farmer to concentrate on his core business, without taking any risks. A rent is paid to the owner and an annual indemnity to the farmer, who signs a maintenance agreement with SUNTI, giving him security over time, in terms of activity and income.

What are the steps involved in such a project?

It takes 4 to 5 years to complete. Once the farmer or farmers have expressed an interest, the process begins with Sunti-funded studies (agricultural, environmental, technical, etc.). A proposal for preferential zoning and an agricultural project are drawn up, before the building permit procedure. After operation (30 to 40 years), we will be responsible for dismantling the plant.

Our guiding ideal is to improve and sustain agricultural production. Sunti is a human-scale structure, guaranteeing that projects are designed in consultation with farmers. Agile, then, but also solid, as we are backed by a French group (Soper) that has been working in the renewable energies sector since 1989. Its financial strength is a guarantee of long-term security.

What type of breeding lends itself to this type of project?

All types of livestock farming can potentially be synergized with our facilities, including sheep, goats, cattle, poultry and pigs. We operate on areas of at least 10 hectares, but the possibility of setting up a joint project between several farms does not exclude smaller entities.