Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE)

Diveo GmbH , a Freiburg-based startup founded by former students of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) , is pioneering the development of agrivoltaic systems that integrate battery energy storage systems (BESS) and are connected to the grid. These systems combine solar power generation with agricultural activities, offering benefits such as crop protection, water conservation, and additional income for farmers. Diveo provides end-to-end services, including strategic planning, construction, and monitoring of agrivoltaic sites tailored to specific agricultural needs. The designs leverage advanced light simulations and shading analyses from Fraunhofer ISE to optimize plant growth and energy production. Agrivoltaics not only protect crops from hail, frost, and drought but also enhance farm resilience by diversifying revenue streams through solar energy generation.

Data Extracted:

Company Overview:

1. Name:

   • Diveo GmbH

2. Location:

   • Freiburg, Germany

3. Founders:

   • Two former students of Fraunhofer ISE with experience from previous spin-off companies.

4. Parent Organization:

   • Spun out of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) .

System Features:

1. Agrivoltaic Integration:

   • Combines solar power generation with agricultural activities.

   • Co-located with battery energy storage systems (BESS) for energy management.

2. Grid Connection:

   • Fully integrated with the electrical grid for stable energy supply and distribution.

3. Design Flexibility:

   • Utilizes various installation types based on agricultural needs:

     • Elevated, static east-west PV systems for fruit growing.

     • Solar tracker systems for agriculture and permanent pastures.

4. Customization:

   • Tailored designs ensure profitability for stakeholders such as landowners, municipalities, farms, and investors .

Key Benefits:

1. Crop Protection:

   • Shields crops from hail, frost, and drought damage .

2. Water Conservation:

   • Reduces water consumption, addressing irrigation challenges in agriculture.

3. Additional Income:

   • Solar energy generation provides a stable revenue stream, increasing farm resilience against crop failure.

4. Sustainability:

   • Promotes renewable energy adoption while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Technological Approach:

1. Light Simulations and Shading Analyses:

   • Uses advanced tools developed by Fraunhofer ISE to optimize plant growth and energy yield.

2. Adaptability to Local Conditions:

   • Designs are customized based on environmental factors, ensuring optimal performance for each site.

Applications:

1. Agricultural Sectors:

   • Suitable for fruit growing , arable farming , and permanent pastures .

2. Geographical Suitability:

   • Ideal for regions facing extreme weather conditions (e.g., hail, frost, drought) or water scarcity.

3. Stakeholder Benefits:

   • Provides economic and environmental advantages for farmers, landowners, municipalities, and investors .

Research Context:

1. Institutional Support:

   • Backed by Fraunhofer ISE , a leading research institute in solar energy systems.

2. Expertise Leveraged:

   • Advanced light simulation and shading analysis tools from Fraunhofer ISE ensure optimized system design.

3. Leadership Insight:

   • Kai Klapdor , CEO of Diveo, emphasized the importance of tailored installations to meet diverse stakeholder needs during a company presentation.