Protecting Flowers of Fruit Trees From Frost With Dynamic Agrivoltaic Systems

Abstract

Spring frost is a risk for fruit tree production. In this study, a dynamic agrivoltaic system (AV) was tested as a solution to protect trees from frosts. The study was done in a nectarine AV in France in 2022 and 2023. The AV plot was paired with an adjacent control plot without panels. Air temperature nearby the trees was measured continuously with thermo-hygrometers each year. In 2022 and 2023 frost sensors to mimic organ temperature were also used. In 2023, bud temperatures were continuously measured during bloom. Frosts during bloom were observed in 2022 and 2023 but only the 2022 frost was associated with flower damage. Solar panels were positioned in horizontal position during the nights with frost. Night air temperature nearby the AV trees was warmer in comparison with control trees (increases between 0.27 and 0.47 °C). An increase between 0.25-1.29 °C was also observed for frost sensors and between 1.61-1.69 °C for the flower buds. Phenology was similar between control and AV trees. In 2002, 35% of control flowers were injured during frost while less than 10% were injured in the AV. We conclude that agrivoltaics can be used to protect flowers from frost.