The Nufri group has begun deploying solar panels over fruit trees in Lleida, marking the first agrivoltaic plants in commercial agricultural operations in the region. These installations are designed to supply electricity to farms and protect trees by providing shade during periods of excessive heat, according to the company.
A new solar plant is taking shape in Vilanova de Segrià, located in the Segrià comarca. Unlike traditional solar farms, the panels are mounted on a metal structure above the tree canopies, nestled among fruit trees. This is Nufri's first agrivoltaic plant in Lleida, with another similar project in Puiggròs, in Les Garrigues, awaiting final approval from the Generalitat.
The photovoltaic panels will be mobile, adjusting their orientation throughout the day. This allows them to let through the necessary sunlight or project shade during intense heat, helping to regulate temperature and prevent thermal stress in apple and pear trees. The primary function is to produce electricity for the farm's own consumption.
Agrivoltaics Expand Beyond Experimental Sites
Agrivoltaic technology is now moving into real agricultural operations in Lleida, following initial trials at experimental sites such as the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA) in Mollerussa. These systems share land for both energy and agricultural production. A key feature is that they sacrifice some energy generation potential to prioritise crop needs.
Nufri sources indicated that the ongoing project in Segrià and the planned one in Les Garrigues are part of the firm's research and development initiatives. The group also plans a third agrivoltaic plant on its own land in Soria, outside Catalonia. Placing these installations within working farms will allow for direct comparison of the quality and quantity of fruit production from trees under solar panels versus those in open air nearby.
Investment and Future Plans
The plant under construction in Vilanova de Segrià is on land owned by Indulleida, where Nufri is the majority shareholder. This project involves 1,400 solar panels with a total power output of 900 kW and includes batteries for energy storage. The Generalitat has authorised an investment of €1.4 million for this installation.
The proposed plant in Puiggròs will be almost identical to the Vilanova de Segrià project, requiring a slightly higher investment of €1.6 million. It has already received administrative and construction authorisation from the Generalitat and is only awaiting approval from the Urban Planning Commission.
