Farm modernization - in the area of green energy on the farm
About this good practice
Photovoltaic installations are ideal to combine it with the simultaneous use of the land for crop production or animal grazing. Including the purchase of energy storage and smart energy management systems in the investment has allowed beneficiaries to increase the use of the electricity they produce on the farm. The program was an element of the country's development policy system and its Managing Authority was the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. It aimed to support rural development by enhancing agricultural competitiveness, sustainable resource management, climate action, and territorial development. The program consisted of assistance to farmers granted in the form of a subsidy for eligible costs incurred for the implementation of a given investment. The level of subsidy was 50% of the eligible costs incurred or 60% if a “young farmer” applies for assistance. The program was open to any person whose: the size of the farm was at least 1ha of agricultural land or a property used for agricultural production; carried out agricultural activities for profit in animal or plant production which excluded fish farming and scientific research purposes. The investments covered by this operation were: the installation of solar power generation equipment on the farm and on developed agricultural land; the installation of heat pumps combined with photovoltaic installation and electricity flow management systems; subsidies for the purchase of electricity storage facilities
Expert opinion
Resources needed
For the Podkarpackie region, the call granted funds, with a total value of approximately 416 758 EUR. One beneficiary and one farm, during the entire period of project implementation, received up to maximum of approximately 32 thousand EUR.
Evidence of success
During the implementation of the call, the Podkarpackie regional branch of The Agency for Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture received 77 applications, of which 28 agreements on the granting of subsides were concluded. The program has improved economic performance and facilitated the restructuring and modernization of farms, particularly to increase market participation and market orientation and diversify agricultural production.
Potential for learning or transfer
Agrophotovoltaics in Poland is at an early stage of development, so the possibility of financial support will accelerate its development and increase its popularity. Combining photovoltaics with agricultural use of the land around it makes it possible to use the environment in ecological way, while generating energy. Funding development of the photovoltaic installations and energy from renewable sources in agriculture can increase growth of the region and farm itself. This practice can also be used in other countries.
Further information
Good practice owner
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