It's finally here! We're finally launching a new series titled "Lawyer on the Farm." The first topic to be discussed in depth is renewable energy sources in agriculture. In today's article, we'll present Renewable Energy Sources (RES ) for agriculture and highlight their benefits.
For several years, renewable energy sources in agriculture have been a fundamental element of the economy's transformation towards climate neutrality. Due to the increasing consumption of conventional energy, agriculture faces the enormous challenge of minimizing climate change, coupled with rapidly rising energy prices. Therefore, renewable energy sources in agriculture not only represent an ecological alternative but also create a new tool for ensuring energy independence and economic stability.
In agriculture, agrophotovoltaics, wind farms, biomass, and heat pumps are playing an increasingly important role, replacing conventional energy sources. We must recognize that energy demand is primarily met by fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which are non-renewable and will eventually be depleted. Therefore, it is important to emphasize that implementing a rational policy can ensure that renewable energy sources fully meet the energy needs of farms and become the subject of a new business model for farmers (not just prosumers).
Agrophotovoltaics
In the photovoltaic process, electricity is generated from solar radiation. On farms, agrophotovoltaics operate using three methods: (i) installing panels on the ground, allowing plants to be grown in the spaces between them, which maintain soil fertility; (ii) mounting the panels on an overhead structure, i.e., a dedicated framework under which plants can grow, effectively maintaining soil fertility; and (iii) installing the panels on the roof of a building. Energy obtained from agrophotovoltaics can be fed into the grid or used for personal use.
Wind farms
Wind energy is converted into electricity using wind turbines. Investments in wind farms, like those in agrophotovoltaics, will lead to regional development, generate high revenues for landowners, and contribute to economic growth. Our experience shows that wind farms don't require large areas, and moreover, farmers will be able to effectively utilize wasteland and poor-quality agricultural land. However, we emphasize that just as agrophotovoltaics will work well nationwide, wind conditions must be considered when installing a wind farm. This stems from the fact that a minimum average wind speed of approximately 5 m/s is required for proper and effective operation of a wind farm.
Biomass
According to Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014, biomass refers to the biodegradable fraction of products, waste, and residues from agricultural production (including substances of plant and animal origin), forestry, and related industries, including fisheries and aquaculture, as well as biogases and the biodegradable fraction of industrial and municipal waste. Biomass can be processed into biofuels and used to generate electricity and heat. Biomass is an ideal solution for reducing the greenhouse effect, as agriculture provides unlimited amounts of biomass material from which we can obtain energy. This material includes straw, hay, haulm, cuttings, bark, shavings, sawdust, animal production waste, dewatered sewage sludge, and energy crops.
Referring to the advantages of renewable energy in agriculture, it should be emphasized that "tomorrow's agriculture" is undeniably linked to renewable energy. High electricity prices, difficulties in purchasing traditional energy sources, respect for nature, environmental protection, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced risk of energy supply interruptions are the greatest advantages of renewable energy. This list should also be supplemented by a new agricultural business model that allows for more efficient management of less-favoured agricultural land. This model involves leasing land for renewable energy installations and allows farmers to implement renewable energy investments independently or collectively through energy cooperatives.
The energy transition has become a reality. Photovoltaic installations, wind farms, electric cars, biogas plants, and heat pumps are now an integral part of the Polish economy, including agriculture. However, implementing your own renewable energy investments requires proper preparation, implementing modern solutions, support in complying with all legal procedures, and concluding a contract, the content of which should reflect the principle of equality of the parties.
In the coming weeks, we will continue the topic of renewable energy and we invite you to read the next article in which we will present possible funding opportunities.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Legal status as of July 10, 2024
author/editor of the series:
