The integration of solar energy production with agriculture, known as agrivoltaics, presents a promising solution to address land-use competition while boosting perennial crop productivity. This study evaluated the feasibility and impact of agrivoltaic systems on strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) production in Iowa. The objectives included assessing plant growth, fruit yield and quality, microclimatic modifications, and economic viability under photovoltaic (PV) panel shading. We hypothesized that partial shading from PV panels would mitigate heat stress, reduce water demand, and enhance fruit quality without significantly compromising yield. A replicated field trial of two June-bearing strawberry cultivars in 2024 and 2025 compared plants under a standard rotating 5-ft PV configuration with traditional open-field production. Environmental parameters such as light intensity and temperature were monitored to quantify microclimatic changes. Additionally, plant physiological responses and post-harvest disease incidence were analyzed. Future economic assessments will determine profitability and trade-offs associated with energy co-production. Findings from this research informed best management practices for integrating agrivoltaics in specialty crop production, particularly in temperate regions. In 2024, berries were larger in weight and size under the panels compared to the open-field plots. Post-harvest assessment indicated that the increase in size did not correlate with a reduced shelf life. Overall, this study found a favorable effect of intermittent shading on strawberry production in the Midwest.
