Key Takeaways
- Collaboration Between iSun and Next2Sun: iSun, Inc., a US-based solar company, and Next2Sun Mounting Systems GmbH, a German agrivoltaics pioneer, have partnered to introduce Next2Sun’s vertical agrivoltaics system in the USA.
- Innovative Agrivoltaics Technology: This collaboration focuses on vertical bifacial photovoltaics, preserving agricultural land while producing solar energy, which is particularly beneficial in regions like the northeast USA.
- First Project Launch in Vermont: The joint project will commence in early 2024 in Vermont, featuring vertical rack elements with bifacial solar modules, enabling agriculture and solar power production simultaneously.
- Support from the German Federal Ministry: The project is backed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action as part of its Renewable Energy Solutions Programme.
- iSun’s and Next2Sun’s Commitment: Both companies are dedicated to advancing the energy transition through innovative solutions, with iSun focusing on clean, renewable solar energy and Next2Sun being a leader in vertical bifacial photovoltaics.
iSun, Inc. and Next2Sun Mounting Systems GmbH have entered a significant partnership since early 2023, marking a pivotal step in the renewable energy sector. This collaboration aims to establish Next2Sun’s vertical agrivoltaics system in the United States, which promises to revolutionize how solar energy is harvested while preserving agricultural land.
The Partnership
iSun, Inc.
iSun has been a key player in technological innovations for over 50 years, significantly contributing to various sectors, from silicone chip production to telecommunication services. Today, the company is committed to promoting clean, renewable solar energy, viewing it as a crucial investment for the future.
Next2Sun Mounting Systems GmbH
Next2Sun stands as a leader in vertical bifacial photovoltaics, a technology that optimizes solar power production and reduces the overuse of agricultural land. The company has developed and marketed a range of products, mainly focusing on agrivoltaics systems and solar fences, serving various sectors.
The First Agrivoltaics Project
Scheduled to begin in Vermont in early 2024, this project will see the installation of 69 vertical rack elements, each housing two bifacial solar modules. The 3.7-acre site will also support agricultural activities, with crops like carrots, beetroot, and saffron grown between the solar module rows. This innovative approach ensures the complete preservation of valuable agricultural land.
Support and Acknowledgment
German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action
The project is part of the Renewable Energy Solutions Programme, an initiative by the German Federal Ministry demonstrating international support and cooperation in renewable energy endeavors.
CEOs’ Perspectives
Jeffrey Peck, CEO of iSun, and Heiko Hildebrandt, CEO of Next2Sun, both express enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the potential impact of the vertical bifacial agrivoltaics system in the energy transition, especially in areas like the northeast of the USA.
Additional Supporting Bodies
German Energy Agency (dena)
As a center of excellence for energy transition and climate protection, dena supports the German government’s energy and climate policy objectives. It brings together partners from various sectors to develop and implement energy solutions.
German Energy Solutions Initiative
This initiative by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Action focuses on promoting German energy technologies globally. It supports climate-friendly energy solutions and aids German companies in entering foreign markets, particularly in renewable energies and energy efficiency technologies.
Renewable Energy Solutions Programme (RES Programme)
The RES program aids German renewable energy and energy efficiency companies in market entry, with support in installing reference plants and conducting information and training activities.
The partnership between iSun and Next2Sun marks a significant step in the renewable energy sector, combining technological innovation with environmental sustainability. This collaboration highlights the potential of agrivoltaics in the energy transition and exemplifies international cooperation in pursuing climate-friendly solutions.
Image provided by Knoblauch GmbH
