D2.1: Mapping of RES integraton in farms at EU level

This report, Deliverable 2.1 of the HarvRESt project, provides an analysis of the integration of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) into agricultural practices. For a more detailed and reader-friendly summary of this report, please refer to Annex 6 Detailed Summary. The deliverable covers three essential tasks: Task 2.1, which maps best practices for farm decarbonization; Task 2.2, which assesses stakeholder needs and regulatory frameworks for RES adoption in Europe; and Task 2.3, which characterizes specific use cases in Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Norway.

Task 2.1 identifies effective practices and initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions in agriculture. A key insight is that strategic placement of RES infrastructure, such as wind turbines and solar panels, can help balance energy production with biodiversity conservation. However, careful planning is essential to avoid negative impacts on ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Technologies such as biomass and agrivoltaics (solar panels used alongside crops) are highlighted for their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. However, changes in land use related to RES installations can lead to biodiversity loss if not properly managed. Practices such as agroforestry and using marginal lands for energy installations are recommended to minimize such impacts. While Task 2.1 demonstrates the potential for RES to contribute to more sustainable farming, there are challenges in balancing climate adaptation with food security. The report stresses that policy support and innovative financing mechanisms are crucial for making these technologies accessible to farmers. A holistic approach, considering environmental, social, and economic factors, is necessary for successful RES integration.

Task 2.2 examines the needs of local stakeholders and the regulatory frameworks supporting RES integration in four countries: Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Norway. A multi-method approach was employed, including surveys, interviews, and desk research. The findings show that stakeholder engagement is critical for the successful adoption of RES. While farmers generally express openness to integrating renewable energy, socio-economic factors such as farm size, education, and financial resources significantly affect adoption rates. In some cases, legal uncertainties and policy barriers—including zoning restrictions and inconsistent governmental support—are major obstacles. Policy alignment at both national and EU levels is crucial to foster the widespread adoption of RES. Financial incentives such as feed-in tariffs and tax reductions, alongside clear legal frameworks, help mitigate the financial risks of renewable energy projects. Furthermore, social acceptability is vital; early engagement with local communities can address concerns related to landscape changes and wildlife impacts, increasing the likelihood of successful RES adoption.

Task 2.3 focuses on specific HarvRESt use cases in Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Norway, representing different farm types, climates, and RES technologies. These use cases explore practical applications of RES tailored to local conditions. For instance, the Italian use case targets agro-industrial farms and decarbonization along the agri-food value chain. In Spain, agrivoltaics is being experimented with in vineyards, its impact on crops is being studied, and efficient energy management systems are being tested to help reduce the carbon footprint. Furthermore, a biorefinery model for biogas production from agro-residues is being studied, addressing the nutrient potential of digestate.  Denmark’s focus is on integrating biogas production into farms to create circular energy systems, while in Norway, smart energy systems are being developed to manage renewable energy storage and distribution effectively. Each use case highlights both the potential of RES to transform agriculture and the challenges involved, such as financial costs, infrastructure development, and technical expertise. The multi-actor approach employed—collaborating with farmers, industry, and policymakers—ensures that the solutions developed are scalable, practical, and tailored to the diverse needs of stakeholders.

In conclusion, Deliverable 2.1 emphasizes that the successful integration of RES into agriculture requires a combination of technological innovation, policy support, and active stakeholder engagement. While opportunities for reducing emissions and enhancing farm sustainability are significant, challenges such as regulatory hurdles, financial constraints, and land-use conflicts must be overcome. To promote broader adoption of RES, the HarvRESt project recommends engaging stakeholders from the beginning, providing education and training for farmers, and developing policy frameworks that encourage investment in renewable energy. By implementing these approaches, farms can decarbonize their operations while contributing to rural development and energy security across Europe.