Agrivoltaics – Placing Solar Photovoltaic Panels Over Cropland

Agrivoltaics—the concept of placing solar photovoltaic panels over cropland—is considered a potential solution to the competing land demands of food and energy production. In this talk, I will discuss how dynamic photovoltaic panels can be adjusted to maximize power generation while also considering the sunlight needs of the crops. An optimal dual-axis photovoltaic panel formulation is proposed that adjusts the panel position to maximize power generation subject to crop requirements. The approach is demonstrated in a case study with two alternative scenarios: one that maximizes solar power generation and another that exclusively focuses on crop cultivation without photovoltaic panels. The last part of the talk will focus on how optimizing the operation of an agrivoltaic system allows us to better understand agrivoltaic systems as a resource connected to the power grid.

This presentation will count for 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH) for the PE License in Wisconsin and Michigan.

Speaker(s): Dr. Anna Stuhlmacher

Agenda:
5:00 Social time, cash bar open

6:00 Dinner served

6:30 (or as meals are finished) Section announcements, door prize drawing,
Featured Speaker – Dr. Anna Stuhlmacher

7:45 (approximately) Wrap up – final comments

Bldg: Green Bay Distillery, 835 Mike McCarthy Way, Green Bay, Wisconsin, United States, 54304