Assessing the social perception of agrivoltaic systems in vineyards. A case study of an integrated trellis-based configuration in South-eastern Spain

Abstract

Sustainable development is a key priority in addressing global challenges such as climate change and land degradation. In South-eastern Spain, the Murcia Region stands out for its agricultural significance and its exceptional potential for solar energy generation, owing to its semi-arid climate and high solar irradiance. However, the rapid deployment of ground-mounted photovoltaic systems has intensified competition for agricultural land, positioning agrivoltaics systems as a promising dual-use solution. This study explores the attitudes of wine tourists towards vertically integrated low-height agrivoltaics systems in vineyards, a sector of major economic and cultural relevance in the region. The methodology consisted of guided visits to pilot low-height vertically integrated agrivoltaics systems installed in vineyard trellises at several wineries, followed by administration of a structured ethically reviewed questionnaire. Statistical analysis reveals a predominantly positive social perception of agrivoltaics systems in vineyards, emphasising support for dual land use and a preference for the low-height system integrated into the trellises, due to its greater harmony with the wine-growing landscape. Differences in perception by gender, educational level and environmental awareness suggests the need for differentiated communication strategies in case actions are taken to further increase the favorable social perception observed. Overall, findings position agrivoltaics as a viable solution for reconciling agricultural and energy production in a context of climate change and resource scarcity.