New report 2025. (Free to download) How its named: Agrivoltaics, AgriPV, Agri Solar
A comprehensive study into the potential of Agrivoltaics with a particular focus on a 50 kW ground-mounted solar array near Hockerton. This study examines the creation of a functional, agrivoltaic system where multiple, integrated land use benefits are delivered, producing food, conserving natural assets and improving biodiversity. Recommendations are made and include the growing of lettuce salad crops, raspberry & strawberry soft fruits and viticulture. These have the greatest potential to provide foods through local short supply chains and to generate income through value added (processing) activities.
A feasibility report identifying the potential to utilises strips of cultivated ground between PV panels for growing food, (notably leafy greens), on a small commercial scale. A novel opportunity to link solar developers with entrepreneurs to run profitable veg box schemes or salad businesses.
Gwent Energy with Green Park Power have been helping us install three solar PV arrays in (or very close to) our Parish:
- 2014: 50kW PV panel system at Hockerwood Eggs Ltd.
- 2015: 29 kW PV panel system at Stormsaver
- 2015: 17 kW PV panel system at the Grange Wellbeing Centre
The systems are owned by Sustainable Hockerton, helping us increase our generation capacity and spread our risk.
They were funded through a mix of loans from our members, and revenue saved from income from the wind turbine.
It also allows us to have the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy without having to add debt to the business.
Patrick, local farmer and solar PV host