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Agrivoltaics Systems Potentials in Italy: State of the Art and SWOT–AHP Analysis

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  • Giorgia Di Domenico

    (Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
    Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Forestry and Wood, Via Valle della Quistione, 27, 00166 Rome, Italy)

  • Andrea Colantoni

    (Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy)

  • Leonardo Bianchini

    (Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy)

  • Massimo Cecchini

    (Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy)

  • Francesco Gallucci

    (Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, Via Della Pascolare 16, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy)

  • Valerio Di Stefano

    (Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Research Centre for Forestry and Wood, Via Valle della Quistione, 27, 00166 Rome, Italy)

Abstract

Agrivoltaics, the integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems with agricultural activities, is gaining attention as an innovative solution to improve land use efficiency and address climate challenges. This study investigates the potential and challenges of the Agri-PV in the Italian context using a bottom-up SWOT–AHP methodology, incorporating data from stakeholders across various sectors. Key findings highlight significant strengths, such as increased land use efficiency and technological innovation, as well as opportunities such as renewable energy production and local economic growth. However, barriers such as high installation costs, regulatory ambiguity, and potential impacts on biodiversity remain crucial issues. SWOT–AHP analysis reveals balanced global priorities, with leading opportunities (26.8%) and stakeholder-specific differences that offer valuable insights for inclusive strategies. The research also estimates the technical potential of Agri-PV in Italy, showing that using a fraction (1% or 5%) of “Unused Agricultural Land” could triple the energy targets outlined in the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC).

Suggested Citation

  • Giorgia Di Domenico & Andrea Colantoni & Leonardo Bianchini & Massimo Cecchini & Francesco Gallucci & Valerio Di Stefano, 2025. "Agrivoltaics Systems Potentials in Italy: State of the Art and SWOT–AHP Analysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-22, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:3:p:925-:d:1574639
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