A delegation from Drohobych is in Austria, studying innovative technologies as part of the Interreg Europe programme. The visit is led by the city mayor Taras Kuchma and Yuriy Yatskiv, head of the international cooperation department. The main focus is on the implementation of advanced renewable energy technologies that combine energy independence with agricultural development.
On 23 April, the delegation visited the ÖKO-SOLAR-BIOTOP solar power plant in the Pöchlarn district, Lower Austria. This site serves as an experimental platform for agro-photovoltaics, where photovoltaic modules are placed above apple orchards. This solution not only generates “green” energy but also creates a favourable microclimate for the plants, protecting them from excessive solar radiation and moisture.
The technology is environmentally neutral and offers several advantages for farmers: protection of trees from excessive sun and moisture, as well as supplying electricity to the agricultural complex that produces animal feed. City mayor Taras Kuchma emphasised the importance of adapting this experience for the Drohobych community. A meeting with local farmers is planned to present the benefits of agro-photovoltaics.
The experience of Austrian colleagues demonstrates that combining electricity generation with crop cultivation is strategically beneficial for farmers, allowing them to increase profits by reducing energy costs and protecting crops from climatic risks.