Agri-PV as a Beacon of Hope for Viticulture and Climate Protection
Ihringen, June 26, 2025 – Minister President Winfried Kretschmann visited the State Winery at Blankenhornsberg in Ihringen on Thursday to explore innovative solutions addressing the current challenges in viticulture. A key focus of his visit was the Viti-Photovoltaic system implemented by Intech GmbH & Co. KG from Kehl for research purposes.
Viti-PV Technology: Combining Energy Generation and Wine Quality
At Blankenhornsberg, two different Viti-PV systems have been installed across a 0.4-hectare vineyard. The 240 kWp installation combines fixed-mounted semi-transparent PV modules with an innovative solar tracking system featuring opaque modules that automatically adjust to the sun’s position. The tracking control system was developed by Intech and is continuously adapted in collaboration with the State Viticulture Institute to meet the specific requirements of viticulture. In addition to electrical parameters, factors such as tilt angle, solar irradiance, plant health, leaf moisture, and soil moisture are monitored and analyzed for optimization.
Dr. Bettina Frank-Renz (Director, State Viticulture Institute) and Kolja Bitzenhofer (Director, State Winery) presenting the Viti-PV installation at Blankenhornsberg.
Opportunities and Challenges
The innovative system aims not only to produce electricity but also to enhance the physiological health of grapevines. Initial results are promising: shading from the PV modules delays grape ripening, which can positively affect the acidity levels and thus the quality of the wine. Further research results are currently being evaluated.
However, challenges remain. “Not every agricultural plot has a power connection nearby. Even the 400 meters of connection we needed here were a significant financial investment. The cost of grid connection can therefore be a decisive factor for constructing such systems,” explained Bettina Frank-Renz, Director of the State Viticulture Institute.
Additionally, machinery cannot access all vineyard rows, sometimes requiring manual labor. Integrating the PV system into existing vineyards also presents complexity.
“We have to try new things, examine them scientifically, and determine whether they make sense and can be economically viable for viticulture,” emphasized Minister President Kretschmann during his tour.
A Contribution to Climate Protection
Beyond improving wine quality, the installation also contributes to climate protection. The CO₂ footprint of the steel structure totals 41.19 tons, while the system saves approximately 150 tons of CO₂ annually. The electricity generated is sufficient to supply around 160 households or can be used directly for electrical equipment in the vineyard.
The Viti-PV installation is part of the “Viticulture 4.0” flagship project under the RegioWIN 2030 program, funded by the State of Baden-Württemberg and the European Union. It powerfully demonstrates how dual land use in agriculture can sustainably shape the future of viticulture.
Minister President Winfried Kretschmann in conversation with Reinhold Treiber (Managing Director, Landscape Conservation Association Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald) discussing biodiversity at the Kaiserstuhl.
Winemakers Engage in Dialogue with Politics
The visit was accompanied by a peaceful protest by local winemakers, who used banners to highlight their challenging economic situation. Climate change, rising production costs, and declining wine consumption are placing significant pressure on many businesses. Kretschmann stressed that preserving cultural landscapes, ensuring the economic viability of farms, and embracing modern technologies must go hand in hand. He also urged consumers to buy more regional products to strengthen local agriculture.
In addition to the Agri-PV installation, the Minister President’s visit also focused on the work of the Landscape Conservation Association Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, the transformation of agriculture, and land consolidation efforts in the Kaiserstuhl region.
About Intech GmbH & Co. KG
For over 25 years, Intech GmbH & Co. KG has been a pioneer in the field of photovoltaic systems, actively promoting the market viability of renewable energy. From off-grid power supply to complete energy autonomy, Intech implements sustainable projects and supports customers from planning through to installation. With proprietary systems, Intech focuses on efficient dual land use, offering tailored PV solutions for rooftops, water surfaces, or agricultural land. By developing Agri- and Viti-PV systems, the company makes an important contribution to sustainable energy generation and resource conservation in agriculture.
For more information, visit Intech Clean Energy and Viticulture 4.0.
