Vattenfall, a prominent player in the energy sector, has embarked on a groundbreaking venture with the construction of the Tützpatz 79MW agrivoltaic project in northeastern Germany. This pioneering initiative is set to revolutionize the intersection of agriculture and renewable energy production.
Spanning a vast area of 93 hectares, the Tützpatz project aims to harness solar energy by installing solar modules on various rack systems, ingeniously combined with compatible forms of agricultural utilization. One of the key aspects of this innovative approach is its ability to integrate sustainable agriculture and solar power generation on the same agricultural land, a concept known as agri-photovoltaics or agrivoltaics.
A significant partner in this endeavor is Power and Air Condition Solution Management (PASM), a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom. Through a corporate power purchase agreement, PASM will procure the power generated by the plant for a period of 10 years, illustrating the growing interest in sustainable energy solutions by major corporations.
The Tützpatz agrivoltaic farm, noteworthy for its independence from state subsidies, is slated for completion in 2024. Once operational, it is expected to meet the annual energy needs of approximately 2500 Deutsche Telekom mobile phone stations.
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Claus Wattendrup, Head of Vattenfall’s Solar Division, commented on this pioneering initiative, emphasizing its role in demonstrating the harmonious coexistence of sustainable agriculture and energy production. He highlighted the project’s significance in advancing the young technology of agrivoltaics on a commercial scale, showcasing its potential to contribute positively to the environment and agriculture while providing a new source of income for farmers.
Bernd Schulte-Sprenger, Managing Director of PASM, echoed the importance of the Tützpatz solar park’s electricity supply contract, noting that it marries green power generation with sustainable agriculture. This forward-looking project exemplifies the ongoing energy transition in Germany, highlighting the coexistence of free-range chickens living under the solar panels, illustrating the multifaceted benefits of agrivoltaics.
The Tützpatz 79MW agrivoltaic project stands as a testament to the innovative strides being taken in the renewable energy sector, exemplifying how sustainability and agriculture can synergize to shape a greener and more sustainable future.
