SMALL-SCALE AGRIVOLTAIC SYSTEMS FOR HOUSEHOLDS: A 100 M² PILOT MODULE AND SCALING POTENTIAL TOWARD SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

• Date: 2026
• Main Authors: Zurian , O., Novytskyi , S.
• Format: Article
• Language: Ukrainian
• Published: Institute of Renewable Energy National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 2026
• Subjects: renewable energy; agrivoltaics; semi-transparent photovoltaics; water savings; sandy soils; small-scale farming.
• Online Access: https://ve.org.ua/index.php/journal/article/view/630
• Journal Title: Vidnovluvana energetika

This paper develops a conceptual model of a small-scale agrivoltaic module for a household located on sandy soils in the Kyiv region and evaluates its potential for phased scaling. The relevance of the study is driven by the need to enhance household energy autonomy and to adapt agricultural production to increasing aridity. The objective is to formulate a techno-economic model of a 100 m² starter agrivoltaic module and to develop a formalized threshold criterion for decision-making regarding its implementation, taking into account the potential transition to small-scale business operations.  Based on the analysis of specific photovoltaic energy generation and the expected yield reduction under partial shading, a relationship linking the annual energy benefit to potential agricultural losses is proposed. It is demonstrated that with a coverage ratio of 35–40% and moderate yield reduction, the energy effect generally exceeds agricultural losses, ensuring the economic feasibility of the starter module at the household level.  The scientific novelty of the study lies in the development of a threshold-based decision model for small-scale agrivoltaic systems and in the formulation of a phased scaling strategy from energy-autonomous households to small energy-agricultural businesses, accounting for economic, regulatory, and agronomic uncertainties. Unlike most existing studies focused primarily on large-scale agricultural projects, this work proposes a structured framework for initiating small agrivoltaic projects with risk minimization.  The obtained results indicate the feasibility of agrivoltaics as a strategic development tool for small farms. Further research should focus on experimental validation of the proposed model, refinement of microclimatic impact parameters, and detailed economic assessment of scalable system configurations.