Horta Implements Innovative Models in Vineyards to Maximize Energy and Agricultural Production

An innovative and replicable model that maximizes energy and agricultural production

A significant step forward in integrating agriculture and renewable energy production has been made thanks to the contribution of Horta S.r.l., a leading company in the development of digital solutions for sustainable agriculture.

In the context of Italy's first advanced agrivoltaic system on a vineyard, implemented at Gruppo Caviro , Horta has developed models that dynamically regulate the tilt of photovoltaic panels, optimizing both energy and wine production.

A synergy between technology and agriculture for a replicable model

The project, spanning 1.5 hectares of vineyard, represents an innovative and highly scalable model, applicable to numerous agricultural realities in Italy.

Thanks to the models developed by Horta, the system adapts to the specific needs of the plants and environmental conditions. This intelligent management ensures that the agrivoltaic installation positively contributes to both sectors, creating a perfect synergy between renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.

Advanced models at the service of viticulture

Sara Legler, Head of Research and Development at Horta, highlights the importance of the project:

"Agrivoltaics represents the combination of energy production and agricultural production, seeking to find the right balance between these two very different activities. Our goal is to ensure high-quality agricultural production while also achieving efficient energy production.

We simulate and predict crop behavior, identifying potential challenges that could affect production, and we have tools that optimize agronomic management to ensure excellent productive outcomes. The true innovation lies in the model that manages the entire process: from sensors in the vineyard to the models that control the movement of the panels to optimize the microclimate.

Our approach is not only innovative but also highly scalable and transferable to other agrivoltaic installations. The idea is to expand this model on a larger scale to have an even more significant impact, promoting a truly sustainable approach to agrivoltaics."

How Horta’s innovative system works

Sensors and weather stations have been installed in the vineyard to monitor real-time environmental variables such as temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and solar radiation, in addition to soil conditions. This data is processed by mathematical models developed by Horta, which simulate various scenarios and predict the crop’s needs.

Based on this information, the system automatically adjusts the tilt of the photovoltaic panels, adapting them to the vines' needs. If the plants require more light, the panels are positioned to reduce shading; in conditions of excessive solar radiation, they tilt to optimize energy production.

Moreover, the system optimally manages irrigation by calculating the crops’ water requirements and integrating it with the automated irrigation system. This contributes to significant water consumption optimization, preserving water resources.

A perfect balance between energy and agricultural production

Horta's innovation allows for an optimal balance between energy and agricultural production. The models ensure that the photovoltaic panels operate at maximum efficiency without negatively impacting vine growth.

On the contrary, the intelligent management of the panels contributes to creating a favorable microclimate for the plants' development, protecting them from extreme weather events and reducing water stress.

For agrivoltaic plant developers: the value of Horta's sustainable approach

"With this project, we demonstrate that it is possible to combine high-quality agricultural production with a tangible focus on the environment," says Giuseppe Piacentino , Commercial Director of Horta. He emphasizes, "For those developing agrivoltaic plants, the real value lies in a system like ours, which offers a truly sustainable approach. Our solution optimizes resources, ensuring a balance between renewable energy and agricultural cultivation without compromise."

A scalable model for widespread adoption

Domenico Dosio, Head of Investments, Services, and General Maintenance at Gruppo Caviro , confirms the success of the project: "Our target is not only to ensure energy production but also the well-being of the vine under the agrivoltaic panels, creating a sustainable and replicable model for other vineyards in our region.

With Horta’s expertise, we will implement a model to monitor the plant and evaluate the effects of the agrivoltaic system compared to a condition without coverage.”

The project represents a new paradigm in integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices, aiming to improve production efficiency and contribute to the energy transition.

The goal is not only to increase production efficiency but also to contribute to the energy transition and fight against climate change, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and preserving natural resources.