Which Crops Benefit the Most?

Tomato plants growing underneath a solar panels.

Agrivoltaics works best for shade-tolerant crops that thrive in partial sunlight and benefit from cooler temperatures. Some crops that have been found to grow bigger and yield more under solar panels include:

  1. Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Kale)

  2. Tomatoes

  3. Peppers (Bell Peppers, Chili Peppers)

  4. Carrots & Radishes

  5. Strawberries & Raspberries

  6. Herbs (Basil, Coriander, Parsley)

Why Does This Happen?

Less Water Evaporation – Soil stays cooler and retains moisture longer, reducing the need for irrigation.

Protection from Heat Stress – Many crops struggle in intense summer heat, and solar panels provide a cooling effect.

More Balanced Light Exposure – Some crops actually photosynthesize more efficiently with filtered sunlight, leading to stronger growth.

Real-World Studies

University of Arizona found that chili peppers and cherry tomatoes grew up to 2x larger under agrivoltaic conditions.

Japanese agrivoltaic farms have reported 30% higher yields in certain leafy greens compared to open-field farming.

German research showed that raspberry farms under solar panels had less drought stress and better fruit quality..

The Takeaway

Agrivoltaics isn’t just about earning extra income from solar energy—it can also boost farm productivity. With the right crops, farmers can grow more food, use less water, and protect their land from extreme weather while producing clean energy. It’s a win-win for both farming and sustainability!