What Is Agri-PV? The 2026 Guide to Technology, Funding, and Economic Viability
Agri-PV combines agriculture and solar power on the same plot of land. This guide explains to B2B decision-makers and investors how agri-photovoltaics is defined under DIN SPEC 91434, what types of systems are available, what the EEG feed-in tariff will look like in 2026, how much an agri-PV system costs, and what return on investment is realistic—with each figure accompanied by its primary source and current status.
Table of Contents
- What Is Agri-PV and Land Efficiency?
- Definition according to DIN SPEC 91434
- Designs and Agri-PV Technologies
- EEG Feed-in Tariffs for 2026 and Tenders
- Building Regulations, Land Status, and Taxes
- Costs, Lease, and Return on Investment
- Compatible Cultures
- Seven Synergies for Agriculture
- Market Potential and Reference Projects
- International Comparison
- Outlook for 2026 through 2030
- Why Logic Energy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources and Legal Basis
What is agri-PV, and why is its land efficiency increasing to over 160 percent?
The Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) describes how much land would be needed if used separately to achieve the same total yield from electricity and crops. Values above 100 percent indicate a gain in land efficiency resulting from the combination. Fraunhofer ISE estimates the LER of its reference systems to be between 1.6 and 1.86 (Fraunhofer ISE, Agri-Photovoltaics Guide). This dual harvest of solar power and crops significantly increases land use efficiency without displacing agriculture.
The benefit increases during dry years: partial shading reduces evaporation at ground level and alleviates heat stress on the plants. In Heggelbach, the potato yield in 2018 was 11 percent higher than the open-field reference (Trommsdorff et al. 2021). In this way, agri-PV addresses the competition for land between energy and food production caused by conventional open-field solar power systems.
Definition and legal framework according to DIN SPEC 91434
DIN SPEC 91434 specifies the minimum requirements for primary agricultural use—food production takes precedence over solar power generation. The key difference from traditional ground-mounted photovoltaic systems is the land status: With agri-PV, the land remains agricultural or forestry property and is assessed under Property Tax Category A; a purely ground-mounted system converts it into real estate subject to Property Tax Category B (state decrees of July 15, 2022). CAP direct payments are also maintained at 85 to 90 percent of the land area (Section 12 of the CAP Direct Payments Regulation). Since 2024, DIN SPEC 91492:2024-06 has supplemented the standard with requirements for livestock farming under agri-PV.
| Criterion | Agri-PV (Cat. I / Cat. II) | Ground-mounted solar panels |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural use | Primary use, reference yield ≥ 66% | Land withdrawn, electricity generation only |
| Maximum loss of land area | 10% (Cat. I) / 15% (Cat. II) | not applicable |
| Land Status | Arable land / permanent grassland remains | Special-Purpose Development Area |
| Property tax | Property Tax A | Property Tax B |
| CAP Direct Payments | yes, on 85–90% of the area | no |
| Outdoor Building Regulations | preferred: up to 2.5 hectares, close to the farm | only through a zoning plan |
| Sources: DIN SPEC 91434:2021-05; State Decrees of July 15, 2022 (BStBl I 2022, 1226); § 12 GAPDZV; § 35(1)(9) BauGB. | ||
What Types of Designs and Agri-PV Technologies Are Available?
Elevated agri-PV systems are installed with a minimum clearance of 2.10 meters above the crops, allowing even large agricultural machinery to operate underneath them. They are suitable for perennial crops such as fruit, berries, grapes, and hops, while also providing these crops with protection from hail, frost, and intense sunlight. Light-transmitting or semi-transparent PV modules precisely control the amount of light the crops receive.
Tracking systems optimize solar power production by allowing the PV modules to follow the sun’s path; this increases yield and market value, but incurs additional costs. For light-demanding crops such as grains, agri-PV systems with wider spacing between modules are necessary. Vertical agri-PV based on the Next2Sun principle arranges bifacial PV modules vertically in rows and generates its solar power primarily in the morning and evening, which smooths out the feed-in profile.
| Design | Category | Yield per hectare | CAPEX (€/kWp) | Typical Culture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High up on a tower | I (≥ 2.10 m) | 500–700 kWp | 1,500–1,700 | Fruit, berries, wine, hops |
| Vertical bifacial (Next2Sun) | II | 200–390 kWp | 700–1,000 | Pastureland, arable farming, grazing |
| Tracking (Tracker) | I | 400–700 kWp | +10–20% compared to fixed | Specialty crops |
| Translucent glass-glass modules | I | 500–650 kWp | premium segment | Apples, berries (hail protection) |
| Fixed tables at floor level | II | 600–900 kWp | 800–1,100 | Extensive grassland, pasture |
| Source: Fraunhofer ISE, 2024 Electricity Generation Costs Study; Next2Sun; DIN SPEC 91434, Section 4. | ||||
EEG Feed-in Tariffs for 2026 and BNetzA Tenders for Agri-PV
Agri-PV is defined in the EEG 2023 as a “special solar installation” under Section 48(1), first sentence, No. 5 (arable land, permanent crops, permanent grassland). For systems up to 1 MW, the statutory reference value of 6.59 ct/kWh applies; the fixed feed-in tariff is 6.19 ct/kWh (Section 48(1), Section 49 EEG 2023; Bavarian State Office for Agriculture, as of January 31, 2026). Rates have been in effect since August 1, 2026; the next reduction will take effect on February 1, 2027; as of August 1, 2026.
Larger agri-PV systems are covered by the tender for special solar installations. The maximum rate is 9.5 ct/kWh (Section 37b(2) EEG 2023), plus a bonus of 2.5 ct/kWh (Section 48(1b) EEG 2023). Both figures are derived from Solar Package I and are subject to approval under EU state aid law, which had not yet been granted as of January 31, 2026. This sub-segment will have a capacity of 1,200 MW in 2026 (Section 37d EEG 2023). The articles on “Agri-PV Open-Field Investment 2026” and “Agri-PV Italy for Investors” provide further insight into the investment outlook.
| Regulation | Paragraph | Value 2026 | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Value to be applied up to 1 MW | Section 48(1) of the EEG 2023 | 6.56 ct/kWh (fixed fee: 6.19 ct) | Valid; phase-out effective August 1, 2026 |
| Technology Bonus on a High Pedestal | Section 38b of the EEG 2023 | 0.5 ct/kWh | Valid (Transitional Provision) |
| Bonus for Special Solar Systems | Section 48(1b) of the EEG 2023 | +2.5 cents/kWh | EU State Aid Reservation |
| Highest Bid | Section 37b(2) of the EEG 2023 | 9.5 cents per kWh | EU State Aid Reservation |
| Sub-segment volume in 2026 | Section 37d of the EEG 2023 | 1,200 MW | operational |
| PV panels on agricultural land | Section 37(4) of the EEG 2023 | 80 GW by 2030 | valid |
| Sources: Sections 37b, 37d, 38b, 48, 49 of the EEG 2023; Bavarian State Office for Agriculture (as of January 31, 2026); Federal Network Agency. | |||
Building Regulations, Land Status, and Taxes
The special provisions under Section 35(1)(9) of the German Building Code (BauGB) apply to facilities associated with an agricultural operation of up to 2.5 hectares. Larger projects still require a zoning plan or fall under the land-use framework of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG).
For tax purposes, the tax authorities treat agri-PV as agricultural and forestry assets—with benefits regarding property tax, inheritance tax, and real estate transfer tax. For commercial operators, the investment deduction under Section 7g of the Income Tax Act (EStG) is also relevant; the guide to the investment deduction for photovoltaics explains how this interacts with the PV tax exemption.
How Much an Agri-PV System Costs and What Return on Investment Is Realistic
The range of investment costs depends heavily on the design: High-mount Category I systems are at the upper end of the range at 1,500 to 1,700 euros per kWp, while vertical bifacial systems are significantly lower at 700 to 1,000 euros per kWp. Higher mounting structures, greater module spacing, and, in some cases, tracking systems account for the higher cost compared to a standard ground-mounted system.
For landowners, the lease is the key lever. For dual-use agri-PV projects in Germany, it ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 euros per hectare per year (Logic Energy / Helm Group, portfolio data for 2024). The page on leasing land for solar parks provides details on the complete lease models, contract clauses, and the process.
| Key figure | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| CAPEX for Agri-PV (0.5–2 MWp) | 900–1,700 €/kWp | Fraunhofer ISE |
| Agri-PV Return on Investment (typical) | 7–8% per year | Helm Group, 2024 |
| Dual-Use Lease (DE) | 1,000–3,500 €/ha/year | Logic Energy, 2024 |
| Minimum Investment | with equity of at least €100,000 | Logic Energy |
What are the benefits of agri-PV on your land?
We’ll evaluate the location, design, and power transmission route of your agri-PV project—including yield, lease payments, and return on investment—using specific calculations rather than general estimates. Free of charge and with no obligation.
Which crops are compatible with agri-PV
To date, agri-PV has been most widely adopted in fruit and grape cultivation as well as in berry farming, where the modules provide additional protection for high-value crops. The impact on yield depends on the crop, the year, and the design. In Heggelbach in 2018, celery yields were 12 percent higher than the open-field reference; potato yields ranged from −20 percent in a normal year to +11 percent in a drought year (Weselek et al. 2021). For many farms, the predictable income from electricity generation offsets slight yield losses.
| Culture | Suitability | Recommended category | Impact on earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apples, berries | very good | Cat. I, translucent | Coverage > Loss of income |
| Hops | very good | Class I, 7 m high | durable, frost-resistant |
| Wine | good | Cat. I | Mold and UV Protection |
| Potatoes | good | Cat. I / II | −20 to +11% |
| Winter wheat | acceptable | Cat. I / II | −19 to +3% |
| Clover-grass / Grassland | very good | Cat. II vertical | −5 to −8%, stable |
| Corn / Sunflower / Soybean | unsuitable | – | too high a light requirement |
| Source: Weselek et al. 2021; Trommsdorff 2023; DIN SPEC 91434, Appendix. | |||
Seven Synergies for Agriculture
The strongest agronomic effect is evident in extreme years. Because the modules reduce evaporation and moderate crop temperature, yield losses in 2018 were lower than in a normal year—for some crops, the effect even resulted in a net gain. Preliminary one-year results from the LfL demonstration facility in Grub showed up to 10 percent higher yields for spring barley (TFZ Straubing / LfL Bavaria, April 2025).
This creates a win-win situation: Farmers secure their harvests while also generating solar power—a contribution to climate protection and the energy transition that optimizes land use and can be combined with extensive land management and nature conservation beneath the solar panels.
Market Potential in Germany and Seven Pilot Plants
Seven reference projects mark the transition from the pilot phase to the market phase—from the Fraunhofer ISE Heggelbach plant (2016) to the 4.3 MWp vertical bifacial solar park in Löffingen (2024). The range extends from 194 kWp through mixed-crop systems to multi-megawatt installations on grassland and arable land with cattle farming.
| Project | Performance | Technology | Culture | Commissioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heggelbach (Baden-Württemberg) | 194 kWp | Cat. I, 5 m elevated | Assorted Fruit | September 2016 |
| Eppelborn-Dirmingen (SL) | 2 MWp | Cat. II, vertical bifacial | Grassland | September 2018 |
| Donaueschingen-Aasen (Baden-Württemberg) | 4.1 MWp | Cat. II, vertical bifacial | Grassland | July 2020 |
| Gelsdorf (Rhineland-Palatinate) | 258 kWp | Cat. I, light-transmitting, tracker | Apple | May 2021 |
| Kressbronn (Baden-Württemberg) | 239 kWp | Cat. I, semi-transparent, 3.5 m | Apple | May 2022 |
| Au i.d. Hallertau (Bavaria) | ~740 kWp | Class I, 7 m | Hops | July 2023 |
| Löffingen (Baden-Württemberg) | 4.3 MWp | Cat. II, vertical bifacial | Crop Farming + Pasture + Cattle | November 2024 |
Agri-PV Research and Model Regions
This development is being driven by agri-PV research. The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE built the Heggelbach research facility, Germany’s first large-scale pilot plant; the Baden-Württemberg Agri-PV Model Region is testing various agri-PV systems and crops at multiple locations; and the Bavarian State Research Institute for Agriculture (LfL Bayern) is comparing three system types at the Grub demonstration facility. This research provides the reliable yield and land-use data on which planning and economic viability are based.
International Comparison: Japan, France, Italy
Specific subsidy programs are driving expansion: While Germany regulates agri-PV through the EEG and land-use privileges, Italy offers a direct capital grant under Decree DM 436/2023. The Italian market is therefore of particular interest to investors; details, subsidy amounts, and deadlines are covered in the guide “Agri-PV in Italy as an Investment.”
| Country | Performance | Frame | Lease / Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | ~300 MW, ~2,000 farms | METI-FIT since 2013 | 8.98–16 JPY/kWh |
| France | > 200 projects | Decree 2024-318 | €2,000–5,000 per hectare in rent |
| Italy | Target: 1.04 GWp | PNRR / DM 436/2023 | Up to 40% subsidy + 20-year rate |
| Germany | ~14–16 MWp + pipeline | DIN SPEC + EEG 2023 + BauGB | 1,000–3,500 €/ha; ~7.09 ct/kWh |
| Sources: METI/IEA-PVPS; Légifrance; GSE; Fraunhofer ISE; LfL Bavaria 2026. | |||
Limitations and Valid Criticism of Agri-PV
The higher support structure and wider module spacing reduce the installable capacity per hectare compared to ground-mounted systems and increase the specific costs. As a result, profitability depends more heavily on the location, the crop, and the allocation of subsidies. As long as approval under subsidy regulations for the bonuses is pending, part of the calculation remains subject to uncertainty—a point that sound planning takes into account.
Agri-PV 2026–2030: EEG Amendment, CfD, and Solar Package II
For investors looking ahead to the upcoming CfD requirement, the article “The 2027 CfD Requirement for PV Investors” summarizes the implications of the transition. The guide addresses the basic logic behind returns, terms, and the direct investment structure to help determine whether photovoltaics are a worthwhile investment.
Why Choose Logic Energy for Your Agri-PV System
Everything under one roof
Feasibility, permitting, planning, construction (Logic Glas GmbH), and operation all under one roof—no risk of coordination issues.
Dual-use in compliance with DIN-SPEC
Integrated system technology and attachment design—the primary agricultural use as defined by DIN SPEC 91434 remains ensured.
Personal liability of the owner
The partner for investment and revenue models is mediplan Helm e.K. — personal liability pursuant to Sections 1, 17, and 19 of the German Commercial Code (HGB).
Three Markets, One Team
Projects in Germany, Italy, and Spain — Location and financing structure selected based on yield and return on investment.
At Logic Energy, the entire value chain is managed by a single group: site assessment, permitting, grid connection, construction by Logic Glas GmbH, commissioning, and operation. This high level of integration reduces risk over the entire project lifespan and makes returns predictable. Logic Energy is the PV brand of Logic Glas GmbH, part of the Helm Group, which has been in existence since 1982.
Your next step with Logic Energy
Do you own land, want to generate your own electricity as a business, or are you an investor looking to get involved with at least 100,000 euros in equity? We’ll evaluate the location, design, and funding options for your agri-PV project and support you every step of the way—from planning through to operation.
For farmers:
Are you ready for your agri-PV system?
Do you own farmland or grassland and want to make the most of it? With agri-PV, you can combine farming and electricity generation on the same land. At least 85% of your land remains available for agricultural use—while you generate clean electricity.
Your benefits:
Additional source of income (lease or sale of electricity)
Protecting your crops from extreme weather (hail, heavy rain, drought)
EU agricultural subsidies will remain in place (the land is considered agricultural)
Reduced watering needs due to partial shading
Contribution to climate protection and the energy transition
You have two options:
Option 1: Lease the land You lease your land to us for 20 years. We invest in, build, and operate the facility. You receive lease payments and continue to manage your land as usual.
Option 2: Invest on your own You invest in the facility yourself. We plan, build, and operate it for you. You receive the revenue from electricity sales (significantly higher than a lease, but requires a capital commitment).
FOR INVESTORS:
Are you interested in sustainable investing? Contact us!
Are you interested in investing in solar power—without having to find your own land?
With our agri-PV investment model, you invest in projects that offer a double
Result: clean energy AND sustainable agriculture. We organize the
Land and lease agreements with farmers – You invest in fully planned,
approved projects.
What you get:
Ready-to-build agri-PV projects (already planned and approved)
Investments in inverters starting at €100,000 or entire systems
20–40-year term with predictable revenue from electricity sales
Secure lease agreements with farmers (20+ years)
Personal liability of the owner (sole proprietorship) – Contract with mediplan Helm e.K.
Financing Arrangements: Upon request, we can put you in touch with our experienced partner bank, which specializes in solar PV investments (typically requiring 20–30% equity).
Why agri-PV is particularly attractive:
Double social impact: Energy + Agriculture combined
Greater political acceptance than open-field PV alone (important for obtaining permits)
Very stable, long-term lease agreements with farmers
Tax-efficient: Many investors take advantage of IAB (Section 7g of the German Income Tax Act) or special depreciation allowances
Minimum investment: €100,000 (inverter investment)
💡 Important Note: This content is intended solely to provide general information about agri-PV as a technology and investment model. It does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Return projections and economic analyses are based on empirical data and model calculations—they are not a guarantee of future results. For advice tailored to your individual situation, please consult a licensed financial or tax advisor. mediplan Helm e.K. and Logic Energy are not licensed financial or tax advisors. Many of our investors take advantage of tax planning options such as the investment deduction (IAB) under Section 7g of the German Income Tax Act (EStG)—please consult your tax advisor regarding the options available in your specific case. All information is provided without warranty. As of April 2026.
FAQ
What is agri-PV, explained simply?
Agri-PV is a solar power system that uses agricultural land for both electricity generation and crop cultivation. The modules are mounted on supports above or vertically between the crops, so that both the harvest and solar power are produced on the same field (DIN SPEC 91434:2021-05).
How much rent does a farmer receive for agri-PV?
For dual-use agri-PV, the lease rate in Germany ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 euros per hectare per year (Logic Energy / Helm Group, 2024 portfolio data). The exact amount depends on the location, grid connection, and design.
What will the EEG feed-in tariff for agri-PV be in 2026?
Systems up to 1 MW receive a base rate of 6.59 ct/kWh plus a 0.5 ct/kWh technology bonus, for a total of approximately 7.09 ct/kWh (Sections 48 and 38b of the EEG 2023; as of January 31, 2026). Larger plants can offer up to 9.5 ct/kWh through the tender process, subject to EU state aid approval. The next rate reduction takes effect on August 1, 2026.
Will the land retain its agricultural status under agri-PV?
Yes. In the case of Agri-PV systems that comply with DIN SPEC 91434, the land remains agricultural and forestry property subject to property tax class A, and CAP direct payments are maintained at 85 to 90 percent (state decrees of July 15, 2022; § 12 GAPDZV).
Which crops are suitable for agri-PV?
The most shade-tolerant perennial and specialty crops—such as apples, berries, hops, and grapes—benefit from protection against hail and frost, while grasslands are well-suited to vertical systems. Tall, light-demanding crops such as corn and sunflowers are not suitable (Weselek et al. 2021).
What is the difference between Category I and Category II?
Category I consists of elevated systems with a clear height of at least 2.10 meters and a maximum loss of area of 10 percent. Category II includes ground-level and vertical systems with a maximum loss of area of 15 percent (DIN SPEC 91434:2021-05, Section 4).
Does agri-PV require a zoning plan?
Farm-adjacent facilities up to 2.5 hectares are given preferential treatment in rural areas and do not require a zoning plan (Section 35(1)(9) of the German Building Code (BauGB)). Larger projects are subject to a zoning plan or the EEG land-use framework.
Sources and Legal Basis
DIN SPEC 91434:2021-05 — Agri-photovoltaics, primary agricultural use
Section 49 of the EEG 2023 — Decrease in the Applicable Rates
Section 37d of the EEG 2023 — Subsegment: Special Solar Installations
§ 35 of the German Building Code (BauGB) — Preferential Treatment for Agri-PV Near Farms
§ 12 CAP Direct Payments Regulation — Eligibility of Agri-PV Areas for Aid
Federal Network Agency — Solar Tender Process: First Segment
LfL Bavaria — EEG Feed-in Tariffs for Solar Power (as of January 31, 2026)
Fraunhofer ISE — Study on Electricity Generation Costs in 2024
Trommsdorff et al. 2021, *Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews*
Helm Group / Logic Energy — Portfolio Data for 2024 (Return, Lease, CAPEX; internal data)