Complex methodology for optimizing local energy supply and overall resilience of rural areas: A case study of Agrovoltaic system with Miscanthus x giganteus plantation within the energy community in the Czech Republic

• Published in: Renewable energy Vol. 212; pp. 738 - 750
• Main Authors: Janota, Lukáš, Vávrová, Kamila, Weger, Jan, Knápek, Jaroslav, Králík, Tomáš
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-08-2023
• Subjects: Agrovoltaics; Energy resilience; Heat supply; Local bioenergy; Miscanthus x giganteus; Self-sufficiency; Local bioenergy; Miscanthus x giganteus; Self-sufficiency; Heat supply; Agrovoltaics; Energy resilience
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2023.05.077

The article presents a proposal for a comprehensive methodology designed to increase the energy self-sufficiency and overall resilience of rural areas. The methodology aims to maximize the synergy and economic benefit of the agrovoltaic system with the cultivation of the energy crop Miscanthus x giganteus and its use for energy production in CHP sources within the local energy community. Primary data from Miscanthus × giganteus cultivation from long-term field trials and commercial plantations and initial agrovoltaic experiments were used. The analysed data show the high resistance and adaptability of Miscanthus × giganteus to climate change and confirm its expected long-term high yields of around 15 t DM ha−1 y−1 with a Higher Heating Value of 17–19 GJ t−1. The application of the methodology to a case study in the Czech Republic shows a reduction in electricity consumption by more than 40% (2 GWh) and a reduction in thermal energy consumption by more than 15% (4 GWh). The technical-economic analysis shows the high potential, financial and non-financial benefits of local production of energy fuels from biomass as part of subsequent production and energy distribution in the agrovoltaic field.
•A comprehensive energy system design methodology for increasing local energy self-sufficiency is proposed.•The methodology assesses the energy potential of Miscanthus x giganteus.•Agrovoltaic technology, local heat distribution system and combined production of heat and electricity are investigated.•Innovative energy projects operated within the framework of Energy Community support energy transformation.